Oxford at The Folly

Experience Authentic Oxford at our Riverside Restaurant

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We celebrate the place we call home. Like the river that flows past our terrace, or the elegant spires that rise around us, we are connected to the ground beneath us. At The Folly, we showcase the very best of Oxford: every day, every service, every meal.

A bird-shaped sculpture made of a light material, standing on a black base with a curved neck and beak.

The city’s historic fabric, its compelling story and its enchanting spirit is woven deeply into everything we do. Let your Oxford journey of discovery begin with us.

Experience Oxford, authentically,
at The Folly.

The Restaurant

We are proud to be situated in a unique riverside position in the heart of Oxford, a stone’s throw from the Westgate centre but beside the beauty of the River Thames. Our restaurant embodies the real Oxford – the flavours, the tastes, the smells, the colours, the feel, the people, the food.

Explore the Restaurant
Boats docked along a river with buildings and trees nearby, with a person riding a small boat on the river during sunset.

The restaurant’s terrace floats on the waters of the River Thames as she runs gently under Folly Bridge. Inside is reflective of the city – eclectic, eccentric, relaxed and sophisticated. A unique combination of city and nature.

Two women sitting at an outdoor table, having a conversation. One woman is wearing sunglasses and a white lace top, holding a glass of champagne, while the other woman has her back to the camera.

Our Food

We put The Folly at the heart and soul of the Oxford community. We are proud to showcase some of the best locally sourced food and ingredients that our region has to offer.

Experience the food
A plated dish featuring sliced medium-rare steak, grilled vegetables, and garnishes, served on a decorative plate.

Whether dining inside the restaurant, overlooking the river or seated on our floating terrace, you will enjoy a thoughtfully conceived and prepared menu of fresh food and the best seasonal ingredients.

Whether it’s elegant evening dining, a relaxed lunch, afternoon tea or cocktails on the terrace, little can compare to combining good food and wine with our relaxing riverside location.

A plated dish featuring a piece of cooked fish, green asparagus, dollops of green sauce, black spheres, and garnished with edible flowers and leafy herbs.

Cruise and Dine

To take full advantage of our stunning location, nothing can compare to getting out on the river. Combine a serene pre-dinner cruise with an elegant meal at The Folly.

Explore the river

This essential Oxford experience starts with a 40 minute cruise aboard one of our charming launches that takes in some of the highlights of river life in Oxford before you disembark on to our terrace to continue your evening with three courses from the a la carte menu.

A close-up of a vintage wooden boat named Gillan, moored at a dock on calm water, with reflections and greenery visible in the background.
Close-up of a gourmet dish featuring roasted eggplant, sautéed greens, couscous with diced tomatoes, and crispy shoestring potatoes on top.

Special Occasions

Our Oxford restaurant plays host to a variety of very special occasions, from afternoon tea and cocktail cruises through to wedding receptions! We offer a range of celebration options and private parties in the heart of historic Oxford.

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