Best of British Waterways in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire's Unforgettable Waterways

Immortalised in Wind in the Willows and Three Men in a Boat, the River Thames winds through Oxfordshire, past historic market towns and offering leisure activities, fine dining and even a museum.

What could be more idyllic than punting on the River Cherwell, a tributary of the Thames (or Isis as it's called in Oxford), setting out from Cherwell Boathouse and ending with special meal in their riverside restaurant? It's the stuff of memories.

If punting seems a bit daunting, perhaps take a rowing boat or a powered day boat from Abingdon Boat Centre and explore the River Thames - maybe as far as Dorchester or Wallingford?

If you're with family or friends, then a day cruise with Hobbs of Henley or a self-drive day boat lets you mingle with the multifarious craft that host Henley's Royal Regatta. Britain's only River and Rowing Museum offers a fascinating collection of river craft and stories - and the chance to row a trireme.

Far from the Thames' busy river traffic lies Oxford Canal, one of Britain's earliest, built by prison labour, snaking around Oxfordshire's little-known Ironstone Hills. It's best explored by narrow boat from Heyford Wharf, a 200-year -old working boatyard, or from the newly-opened Thrupp Canal Centre, located in the picturesque waterside hamlet featured in Inspector Morse.

But if all this water-based activity is too much, the riverside Beetle and Wedge at Moulsford, with its informal atmosphere, and emphasis on quality food is sure to relax you. So nice to feel that a bit of self-indulgence is doing you good.