Self-Punt Hire

Grab a pole, take control, and navigate Oxford's Cherwell yourself. Staff provide a brief lesson on punting technique before you set off with a map showing safe routes and water depth. This is chaotic fun for groups willing to get wet and laugh at wobbly first attempts. You'll pole through quieter stretches upstream, under bridges, past college grounds, and through shallower water where recovery from dunking is easier. Best for adventurous groups wanting hands-on experience. This is a moderate activity lasting 1 hour. Group size: 2-6. You meet at Magdalen Bridge Boathouse. Key highlights: Full control of the punt with minimal instruction, Shallow water routes designed to be forgiving of mistakes, Groups often compete to see who can go furthest without falling in.

Price: £20

Duration: 1 hour

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: 2-6

Minimum age: 10+

Best for: adventurous groups wanting hands-on experience

Best time: May to September when water is warmest and depth is manageable. Weekday mornings have fewer groups and calmer conditions.

Meeting point: Magdalen Bridge Boathouse

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0-15 minutes Check in and receive punting instruction - Staff demonstrate pole technique, how to steer, and depth-checking methods. They show you how to recover if you fall in.

15-20 minutes Board your punt and practise in shallow water near boathouse - Get a feel for the pole and movements in protected water before heading out onto the main river.

20-45 minutes Navigate upstream on your chosen route - Head toward Port Meadow or the Botanic Garden, depending on your skill and confidence. The route is shallow and forgiving.

45-55 minutes Turn around and pole back downstream - Downstream is easier. By now, your technique should improve slightly.

55-60 minutes Return to boathouse, return pole and life jacket - You may be wet. A laundry service is available for drying clothes if needed.

The whole experience takes 1 hour. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Magdalen Bridge Boathouse.

• Full control of the punt with minimal instruction
• Shallow water routes designed to be forgiving of mistakes
• Groups often compete to see who can go furthest without falling in
• Start from less-crowded upstream section
• Safety deposit returned if you keep the punt damage-free

What is included: 1-hour punt hire, Basic punting instruction, Life jacket and pole, Route map with depth information, Staff rescue if you get stuck.

Not included: Damage deposits (£50-100, refunded if no damage), Dry cleaning for wet clothes, Catering or drinks, Insurance beyond basic liability. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Change of clothes for after, Towel, Waterproof bag for phones and keys, Dry shoes for the return journey, Sunscreen. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September when water is warmest and depth is manageable. Weekday mornings have fewer groups and calmer conditions..

Tip: Deposit required

Tip: Expect to get slightly wet learning

Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users due to boarding and balance requirements. Requires moderate fitness and ability to lift and control a 12-foot pole..

Operator: Magdalen Bridge Boathouse | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 1865 202643

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Magdalen College (2 min walk)
• Bodleian Library (7 min walk)
• Covered Market (6 min walk)

This activity is run by Magdalen Bridge Boathouse.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 2 hours before. Non-refundable within 2 hours. Deposits are refunded only if the punt is undamaged..

Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users due to boarding and balance requirements. Requires moderate fitness and ability to lift and control a 12-foot pole..

Best time to go: May to September when water is warmest and depth is manageable. Weekday mornings have fewer groups and calmer conditions..

What if I fall in the river?

The water is typically 3-5 feet deep on the self-punt route and slow-moving. Staff are trained in rescue and monitor punts. You'll be wet but safe. Bring a towel and change of clothes. The boathouse has a drying service available.

How hard is it to pole a punt?

First-timers will find it awkward and tiring. The pole is heavy and the technique takes practice. Most groups spend the first 20 minutes struggling and the last 20 laughing about it. Expect a humbling experience and sore arms.

Do I lose my deposit if I damage the punt?

Minor scratches and scuffs are normal wear. You lose the deposit only for significant damage like holes or broken seats. Small collisions or running aground don't usually trigger loss. The staff will clarify the damage policy when you check in.