Punting is a much-loved past-time in Oxford even though social distancing now needs to be strictly observed during ongoing coronavirus restrictions.
Once the weather improves, and spring approaches, people start thinking about hiring punts and taking a trip out on the River Cherwell.
Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, High Street Job name: Punting Easter egg (ITS NOT EASTER!!!) PictureSales Ref: OX67712 Notes: Google has hidden an easter egg in Google maps (WHY!) - if you get directions from Magdalene College to Wolfson it suggests punting!!
Magdalen Bridge Boathouse is one of most popular destinations for hiring a punt.
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The boathouse website says: "We are open for punting - social distancing restrictions apply."
Some of the usual arrangements for punting may be adjusted to fit in with the government's restrictions.
15-04-2013 Magdalen Bridge Boathouse open. . Pic: Damian Halliwell Copy: Emma Harrison Catchline: Magdalen Bridge punting Length: standalone Picture Sales Ref: OX58575
The website added: "We are open seven days a week from February 1(weather permitting) to November 30, between 9.30am – 9.00pm (or 1 hour before sunset).
"You do not have to book in advance, but on a busy weekend day it is advisable."
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Punts can also be hired at The Cherwell Boathouse in north Oxford but its website says the punt station is currently closed.
Cherwell Boathouse, Bardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6ST Job name: Punting map PictureSales Ref: OX58955 L-R: William Underhill , Francesca Shakespeare (07976 822 773) William Underhill and Francesca Shakespeare have created a punting map of Oxford to guide to
It added: "Punting is a truly timeless, slightly eccentric, quintessentially Oxford, idyllic pleasure: sailing leisurely upstream or down river, trailing fingers in the silky water, admiring the wildlife, picnicking on a river bank, dropping in at the Vicky Arms or drifting downstream past the university.
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"Visiting students, corporate parties, and groups of friends can all experience the quintessential Oxford experience of punting on the river Cherwell.
15-04-2013 Magdalen Bridge Boathouse open. . Pic: Damian Halliwell Copy: Emma Harrison Catchline: Magdalen Bridge punting Length: standalone Picture Sales Ref: OX58575
"With over 80 punts available, you are more than likely to get a punt easily in the week or come early at the weekend so as not have to wait."
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