The upper reaches of the Thames in Oxford wind through Port Meadow, a beautiful open pasture, accessible from Walton Well Road (off Kingston Road/Walton Street, Jericho), Aristotle Lane (off Kingston Road), Wolvercote and Binsey (via the Botley Road).

Passing through the gate at the end of Walton Well Road is a well-defined white pebble path leading to the Thames (the concrete path heading off to your right goes to Wolvercote and the fantastic gem of Burgess Field Nature Park). The towpath runs north along the west bank of the Thames (reached by crossing first a flat wooden, then a steel arched bridge) and there are two pubs further along the way. 

The Perch at Binsey is the first of these; it serves excellent food and you can sit out in the pleasant garden in the summer.

The Trout is about one mile further on, past Godstow Lock and the ruins of Godstow Nunnery, and next to the road bridge crossing the Thames.

The Trout overlooks a very picturesque footbridge over the river, and peacocks and swans are often to be seen in the grounds. The easiest way back is the way you came, but the weary can follow the road over the river to Wolvercote, from where you can get a bus or taxi back to the city centre.

Option 2 - You can park at the Trout or the Perch and walk to the City Centre and back.

Option 3 -  Just park at the Trout and walk to the Perch and back – it’s a shorter walk that just is lovely if you are short on time but want to be out in the fresh air and maybe end up with a quick light bite at the end?!

cotswolds mist

Mrs Tucker June 2020

Butler Sherborn was a delight and pleasure to work with. Once again thank you so much for all you help and exceeding our expectations and much more.
— Nicki and Brian Lee