River Hotel Oxford Exterior photoRiver Hotel Oxford Exterior photoRiver Hotel Oxford Exterior photo

River Hotel – A Favorite for Families in Oxford

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Check rooms and rates
From$207 /night
Check-in
14Jun
Check-out
15Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

17 Botley Road, Oxford
-
A five-minute walk to central Oxford tourist attractions
Great
8.4
8.5
/10
4.4
4.5
/5

Rooms Overview

The River Hotel offers 20 individually decorated rooms in two buildings: the main hotel and an annexe across the road. Rooms vary in size, with most featuring en-suite bathrooms (bath, shower, and toilet). Two rooms have private bathrooms across the corridor. All rooms include a hairdryer, hot beverage tray, USB sockets, and Freeview TV. Some rooms overlook the River Thames.

Dining Options

Breakfast is served in the River Restaurant, with views of the garden and Thames. The menu includes cereals, yogurts, fruit, and a cooked English breakfast made to order. The hotel does not serve lunch or dinner, but multiple restaurants are within walking distance.

Leisure & Surroundings

The hotel sits on the banks of the River Thames, with a garden leading to the water. It is a starting point for the Thames Path Trail. Osney Island, opposite the hotel, provides access for canoe launching. The Holywell Music Room, Europe's oldest concert hall, is nearby.

Location & Transport

The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Oxford city center, near the Said Business School and King's Conference Centre. Oxford Station is 5 minutes away, with direct trains to London (1 hour to Paddington or Marylebone). Free on-site parking is available, and Hertz and Europcar are a 5-minute walk away.

Services & Amenities

Reception staff provide local tips and taxi bookings. The hotel offers luggage storage, wake-up calls, and bicycle storage. A meeting room is available for small events. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Roadworks nearby may affect access, but staff provide advance notice.

“I found this privately run establishment charming, particularly its proximity to both the train station and the river. The promise of free parking, coupled with the walkable distance to Oxford's city center, is a definite plus. I think it's a solid choice for travelers who appreciate a personal touch.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
  • Single Room Private Bathroom Non En-suite
    2 persons
    9 sq. feet
    1 Single bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Double Room Private Bathroom Non En-suite
    2 persons
    12 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
    2 persons
    12 sq. feet
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Great
8.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Concierge desk
  • No pets allowed
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Tennis court

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At River Hotel, dining options blend comforting British fare with a welcoming atmosphere and accommodating meal types to suit all dietary needs. Start the day with a satisfying breakfast that embraces inclusivity, ensuring every guest feels taken care of and nourished before exploring the vibrant city nearby.
River Hotel Oxford Restaurant photo
River Hotel Oxford Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

British
Ambiance
A cozy and inviting space perfect for gathering, emphasizing warmth and friendliness.
Key Offerings
A well-cooked and presented English breakfast with options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.
Reservation
No
Breakfast only; 7 AM - 10 AM.

River Hotel Location

17 Botley Road, Oxford
Explore Oxford
Explore the Surroundings
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Oxford University Museum of Natural History
19 minutes' walk
Natural history collections in a stunning Victorian building. Free admission, with exhibitions and guided tours available.
Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology
19 minutes' walk
The oldest public museum in the UK, showcasing art and artifacts. Free entry, features stunning galleries and a café.
Oxford Castle
13 minutes' walk
Historic castle site with guided tours available. Unique architectural features and insights into medieval history.
The Covered Market Oxford
13 minutes' walk
Vibrant market with local produce and artisan shops. A great place for foodies and unique shopping experiences.
Port Meadow
30 minutes' walk
Scenic walks and picnic spots by the river. Ideal for nature lovers and families looking for relaxation.
Oxford Canal
12 minutes' walk
Biking and walking paths along the picturesque canal. Bike rentals available close by for adventure seekers.
Platform 5 Oxford
5 minutes' walk
Modern eatery with a relaxed vibe. Known for its breakfast and brunch, plus vegetarian options available.
Tumbling Bay Cafe
4 minutes' walk
Family-friendly café offering delicious pastries and light meals. Perfect for a quick bite or leisurely coffee.
Sheldonian Theatre
13 minutes' walk
Historic venue hosting concerts and events. A unique architectural landmark with a vibrant cultural program.
The Old Fire Station
15 minutes' walk
Community venue with live performances and art exhibitions. Offers a relaxed social vibe with regular events.
Tips on navigating the city
  • City Centre
    Oxford 12 min  ·  3300 ft
  • Airports
    Gloucestershire (GLO) 108 min  ·  44.7 mi
    London Heathrow (LHR) 125 min  ·  51.5 mi
  • Bus
    Bus stop 3 min  ·  700 ft
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-21:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at .
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
The hotel River provides visitors with a free full breakfast.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
German, Italian
Number of rooms:
16

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The River Hotel's location is a highlight for many, offering easy access to the railway station and a pleasant walk to Oxford's main attractions, including colleges and museums. Guests frequently enjoy the light and airy dining room with its fresh flowers and views, particularly during the excellent breakfast featuring both cooked options and a selection of fruits and cereals. Rooms are generally quiet, although some guests have noted that the bedding and blankets could be improved. The convenience of on-site parking is another plus, especially given the ongoing road closures in the area.
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Review score
Based on 382 verified reviews
8.1 /10
Great
85 %
Recommend
Staff
9.5/10
Location
9.3/10
Facilities
8.0/10
Free WiFi
8.2/10
Pros
Train station proximity
Spacious room
Included breakfast
Friendly staff
Cons
Whistling window
High price
Broken shower
Filthy bathroom
Guest reviews
based on 382 reviews
8.1/10
based on 768 reviews
8.4/10
isabella from italy
Single
standard double room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 15, 2026
9.5/10

charming stay with excellent location

convenient location staffed reception car parking coffee facilities
i found the location to be convenient, especially with the main train station being so close. the staffed reception provided good assistance for most of the day! i also appreciated having car parking available since i rented a car. coffee making facilities in my room were a nice bonus.
the decor in my room seemed a bit dated, especially in the bathroom. i noticed some slight wear and tear on the carpet.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel provides car parking at the rear, very useful with vehicles. It also features a lounge area, available for all guests. coffee making facilities were included in the rooms, allowing guests to enjoy beverages at their convenience.
Location
10/10
the hotel is near the main train station, offering easy access for travelers arriving by rail. a taxi rank is nearby, helpful for getting around, particularly with current closures. the beautiful river is also next to the hotel.
Dining
9/10
breakfast included a selection of cereals and fresh fruits, alongside juices, tea, and coffee. the menu offered options like a tasty cooked breakfast, toast, and preserves. the dining room itself was light and airy, with fresh flowers.
Service
10/10
The host and staff were very friendly. they were helpful and attentive to guest needs. They provided excellent service. the check-in process was seamless, even though i arrived late. This made everything easy.
0 Helpful
|
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Michael from Australia
Single
standard double room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 15, 2025
7/10
convenient location free parking english breakfast dated decor dirty bathroom cigarette burn
the location was super convenient for exploring , just a short walk to all the main attractions. i loved that free parking was included , a total lifesaver. breakfast was a real treat , the english breakfast hit the spot every morning.
the room decor was a little dated , it was like stepping back in time. the bathroom wasn't the cleanest , i noticed some black hair on the floor. the bed cover had a cigarette burn , it was a real eyesore.
0 Helpful
j from united kingdom
Business traveller
standard double room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 02, 2025
9.0/10

charming stay near the heart of things

varied selection tasty options fresh flowers straightforward access
the breakfast included a varied selection of cereals and fresh fruits. the cooked breakfast menu had tasty options and excellent service accompanied it. the dining room featured fresh flowers and big windows. i found the location ideal because it was near the train station, made access quite straightforward.
the decor appears somewhat dated , and some areas could benefit from a fresh coat of paint.
Dining
9/10
the breakfast included cereals , fresh fruits , juices , and a cooked option from a menu. service was attentive. the light and airy dining room featured well-spaced tables and fresh flowers.
Service
10/10
the staff were helpful , offering assistance with directions. early check-in was accommodated. the team demonstrated a helpful attitude to all guest requests.
Location
8/10
the hotel is located conveniently close to the train station , which simplifies transportation. several restaurants are easily accessible nearby. the location next to the canal provides a pleasant view from the dining room.
Rooms
9/10
my bedroom was clean and the bed provided good comfort. fresh , fluffy towels were supplied. the room had good facilities. the room had tea and coffee and biscuits which i really appreciated
0 Helpful
|
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Daniel from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Double Room Ensuite Bathroom
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 17, 2025
9/10

Convenient Stay Near the Centre

convenient location wide range
the location near the railway station was very convenient for using public transport the hotel had a lovely traditional british decor. the breakfast offered a wide range of choices. the room was clean and accommodated two people well
none
0 Helpful
Jacob from United Kingdom
Business traveller
standard double room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: October 13, 2025
8.5/10

pleasant experience near the station

advantageous location parking availability excellent breakfast
the location near the station was a significant advantage, it made arrival simple. parking availability was convenient, especially with ongoing road closures in the area. the dining room was light and airy, i noticed clean tables and fresh flowers. breakfast offered a tasty cooked option alongside fruits, juices and cereal.
the card was charged twice. it took some effort to resolve.
Rooms
8/10
the room offered a standard double bed and an ensuite bathroom. fixtures were well kept, it provided essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel provided free onsite parking, which proved very convenient. breakfast included a selection of cereals and fresh fruits. a well-stocked bar was available on the first level.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Eric from United Kingdom
true
standard single room ensuite bathroom
4 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: September 16, 2025
7/10
beautiful grounds really good breakfast hall lighting room door
the breakfast was fantastic. i really enjoyed the service at the tables. the grounds were so beautiful. i could relax right by the river, it was amazingly scenic.
The hall lighting had issues. it kept switching on and off all night. the gaps in the room door let the light in. This made it hard for me to sleep.
0 Helpful
christopher from united kingdom
Business traveller
standard single room ensuite bathroom
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: August 14, 2025
9/10

reliable stay near the centre

great selection short walk
The breakfast had a great selection and tasted fresh! the location was really handy for getting around. The train station was only a short walk away.
i didn't find any issues .
0 Helpful
FAQs
About River Hotel
What are the check-in and check-out times at River Hotel?
Check-in is at 14:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
How far is River Hotel from the city center of Oxford?
The hotel is located 400 meters from the city center of Oxford.
Which nearby attractions can guests visit from River Hotel?
Nearby attractions include the University of Oxford (2 km), Ashmolean Museum (1 km), and the Museum of the History of Science (2 km).
What dining options are available at River Hotel?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves traditional English breakfast and British specialties.
What room amenities can guests expect at River Hotel?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and some rooms offer views of the garden and the River Thames.
What services does River Hotel offer for business travelers?
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi and access to a desk in each room, which is useful for business travelers.
Are there any family-friendly features at River Hotel?
The hotel offers cots and board games, making it suitable for families.
How far is River Hotel from London Heathrow Airport?
The hotel is 81 km from London Heathrow Airport.
What is the closest restaurant to River Hotel?
Dosa Park is located just 0.5 km from the hotel.
Is there a bar or lounge area at River Hotel?
Yes, the hotel features a lounge bar area for guests to relax.

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Check-in
14Jun
Check-out
15Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room