Newbridge to Oxford

Section Overview

Starting from Newbridge, walkers immediately re-enter a pastoral landscape. This quiet river crossing, marked by its 13th-century stone bridge and riverside pubs (The Maybush and The Rose Revived), gives way to a largely flat and open walk eastward.

The Thames here is wide and gently winding. You’ll pass through a series of meadows and farmland, with expansive skies and few buildings in sight. The path stays close to the river much of the way, crossing occasional footbridges and gates.

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Bablock Hythe and Pinkhill Lock

About 3 miles in, you’ll reach Bablock Hythe, historically a ferry crossing point. The ferry service ceased decades ago, but it remains a picturesque bend in the river with a caravan park and the Ferryman Inn pub. This can make a good refreshment stop, though options are otherwise limited on this stretch.

Further along is Pinkhill Lock, one of several manually operated locks along this section of the river. It’s a particularly peaceful spot and a favourite for picnics and photography.

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Swinford Toll Bridge and Eynsham

Soon after Pinkhill, you’ll approach the Swinford Toll Bridge, a Georgian-era crossing still privately owned and collecting a small toll from vehicles. The Thames Path passes underneath it, and nearby you’ll find Eynsham, a large village with shops, pubs, and services about a mile north of the trail – a good detour if you need supplies or lunch.

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Godstow Abbey and the River Meets the City

As you continue toward Oxford, the countryside slowly transitions. The next major point of interest is Godstow, home to the atmospheric ruins of Godstow Abbey, a Benedictine nunnery founded in the 12th century. The abbey was dissolved during Henry VIII’s reign, and its romantic remains now sit quietly by the riverside.

Nearby is the Perch Inn, a popular riverside pub in Binsey, offering food and drink in a charming setting with outdoor seating.

Shortly after Godstow, you’ll pass Port Meadow, a vast area of ancient grazing land on the edge of Oxford. This is a favourite with locals and a haven for birdlife. Walkers may share the path with grazing horses and cattle, depending on the season.

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Entering Oxford

From Port Meadow, the Oxford skyline gradually emerges. The river here becomes busier with rowers, narrowboats, and punts as you approach the city centre. You’ll pass Osney Island, a small network of riverside homes and waterways, before reaching Folly Bridge, marking the centre of Oxford and the end of this section.

Oxford needs little introduction – it’s home to one of the world’s oldest universities and is filled with museums, libraries, and historic architecture. The Thames (called the Isis locally) flows directly through it, and the riverside remains a popular place for walks, picnics, and boating.