Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km)
Start: Newbridge, Oxfordshire
End: Oxford City Centre
Time: 6-7 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Weather Forecast for this Section (Next 7 Days)
Section Overview
This section begins where the last left off in Newbridge. 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.
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 as 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.
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. This makes for a good detour if you need supplies or lunch.
Godstow Abbey
As you continue toward Oxford, the countryside slowly becomes more populated. 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 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.
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.
When you’re ready to press on, the next section takes you onwards out of Oxford and towards Abingdon.
Next Section
Oxford to Abingdon – (9 Miles)
The Thames Path between Oxford and Abingdon offers a gentle and scenic riverside walk that bridges urban parkland and peaceful countryside. This stretch is shorter than others but rich in character, combining historic sites, green open spaces, and attractive river scenery. Ideal for a half-day walk or a relaxing continuation of the trail, this route is suitable for walkers of all abilities and offers several opportunities for food, rest, and riverside picnics.
Previous Section
Lechlade to Newbridge – (16.4 Miles)
The Thames Path from Lechlade to Newbridge follows a tranquil and rural stretch of the river, where navigation becomes more common and the waterway begins to feel broader and more majestic. It’s ideal for walkers seeking quiet, flat terrain through beautiful countryside with occasional glimpses of river life.