Lechlade to Oxford (6 nights)
Join us on this 6-night cruise as the Wessex Rose drifts away from the charming riverside town of Lechlade.
We begin our journey where the iconic spire of St. Lawrence’s Church rises above the landscape, setting the stage for a serene voyage downstream.
As we depart, the river gently guides us past Buscot Lock, the smallest on the Thames, known for its picturesque surroundings and charming weir.
A highlight of this stretch is a visit to Kelmscott Manor, the much-loved Cotswold retreat of William Morris, the celebrated designer, craftsman, and leader of the Arts & Crafts Movement. Tucked away near Lechlade, this beautiful 17th-century house is surrounded by lush gardens and meadows that inspired much of Morris’s work.
Inside, the manor is carefully preserved, offering a glimpse into Morris’s life and legacy. Visitors can explore rooms filled with original furnishings, textiles and personal treasures belonging to Morris and his family, along with works by his close circle of artists and designers. The gardens, with their orchards and flower borders, remain much as Morris described them in his writings, ‘a heaven on earth’.
A little farther along, we reach Grafton Lock, where the waters widen, offering stunning views of the Oxfordshire countryside.
Drifting onward, we arrive at Radcot Lock, one of the oldest on the Thames, dating back to 1892. Here, the medieval Radcot Bridge, believed to be the river’s oldest surviving bridge, offers a glimpse into history. Beyond, the waterway becomes even more secluded as we make our way toward Tadpole Bridge, home to the historic Trout Inn, a perfect riverside retreat for a relaxed pause.
Continuing downstream, we pass through Northmoor Lock, where the river meanders through peaceful farmland and quiet backwaters. Further along, the cruise glides through Pinkhill Lock, an idyllic spot nestled among nature reserves. Soon, we reach Bablock Hythe, once a historic ferry crossing and now a tranquil mooring, where willows dip their branches into the water and herons stand motionless among the reeds.
As we journey onward, Eynsham Lock provides a moment to pause and admire the surrounding meadows before we pass beneath Swinford Bridge, an 18th-century toll bridge that gracefully spans the Thames. The final stretch of our voyage winds through lush countryside toward Osney Lock, where the gentle hum of the river carries us toward Oxford’s historic heart.
Finally, the Wessex Rose drifts beneath Osney Bridge, marking the end of our unforgettable journey. The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, guests bid farewell, taking with them cherished memories of winding waters, historic landmarks, and the peaceful rhythm of life on the Thames.
Cost per person for this cruise £1,950.00*
Deposit required £975.00 per cabin
*Price based on 2 people sharing a twin/double cabin. Cabins booked for 1 person incur a single occupancy supplement of 30%.
Please refer to our terms and conditions before booking. If you have any questions or specific requirements please contact us.
