Open Days 

Next open day

Saturday 31 May 2025 - Summer Eights Day

Testimonials

"I well remember watching the Eights from Univ College Barge before WWII and was really sad when the barges were replaced by boathouses. I have seen one or two barges preserved down the Thames, but hadn't realised the Univ barge is at Caversham. It was a treat to read the history in 'Oxford College Barges' (Clare Sherriff) and to see the splendid collection of contemporary photos. This barge (Corpus Xti) is obviously much loved and sympathetically furnished." M.L. Pinsent

"Dead cool. Really big! I think that the bath is really cool" Kiera Mae

"Great to visit a landmark often seen from across the river" Gillian Darling

"Thank you. I remember the barges in the 1940s." P. Watson

"Lovely to see it again after so many years. I had my wedding party on this barge, March 1967. I'm impressed with how well preserved it is." S. Campling 2008

"I have not been aware of this before. What a jewel!" JD

"What a privilege to see around this lovely boat. Best wishes for the future." Liz Duncan

"How fascinating! Great to get a glimpse into this almost vanished world. Thank you very much!" Goodwin Thompson

"Beautiful old barge! Great to see the interior! Thank you." H. Yeder

"Thank you for allowing us to experience this hidden gem of Oxford! It's great that such a lovely structure is being enjoyed and lived in." Nasir Hamid - photographer - SimplyOxford.com

"I'd always wondered at the story of this wonderful barge. Thanks" John M. 

"Beautiful - to look inside when we've often looked from afar from the meadows" Annette Honeywell

"Thank you. An amazing piece of history" Anne

"My dad was the wood working machinist at Salters when this boat was built. I have really enjoyed my visit." Roy Beesley (aged 92!)

"Thank you for showing me your lovely home. A shame that so many barges got lost or vandalised." Eliane Aubain

"The barges were part of my childhood and the visit brought back many memories. Thank you." Ruth & David Clabon.

"A great opportunity to view a unique part of Oxford's heritage and character. A wonderful memory of yester year!" A.Z. 

"A fantastic exhibition of local boat history. Thanks." D. Carter

"Years ago i used to see these Oxford College Barges along the bottom end of Christ Church meadow. It was lovely to have a look around." Peter Frator

"Fantastic! Let me know if you do membership!" S. Howinson

"What a wonderful boat. I wish you luck with your conservation work." Jan Hill

"Beautiful experience, like a different world. A lived in boat museum. Thanks very much for your hospitality." R.A. 

"Wonderful that this historic barge is still giving use and pleasure" Gerry Rendall

"Amazing. Like a dream come true to finally be able to see this wonderful boat i've seen for so many years, and it didn't disappoint!" Vez

"It was truly wonderful to experience this little piece of history. Thank you." Christine

"We've long wanted to see inside, and it's better than we ever imagined. A big thank you to the barge trust for restoration and caring for it."