Punting along the river

Punt – an open, flat-bottomed boat propelled by a pole.

Punting is mainly found in the university towns of Oxford and Cambridge. It was introduced to Cambridge in Edwardian times and its popularity has continued to grow ever since.

Originally, the flat-bottomed craft were used for moving heavy cargo but pleasure seekers quickly moved in on the scene. Punting is still hugely popular in the two university towns, with tourists flocking far and wide to take part in the famous past-time.

What is punting?

Punting is the term used to describe the art of cruising along in a flat-bottomed boat. A person will stand at the back with a long pole which they grip with both hands, lower into the water and push on the bottom of the river bed, before pulling it back out. The pole can also be used to steer the boat. The punter lowers part of it into the water, then pulls it to the right to steer right, and left to steer left.

There are many companies throughout Oxford and Cambridge offering you the opportunity to take out your own punt - or relax with someone to do the hard work for you. What could be better than chilling out, sipping champagne and watching the world float by?

Some companies now offer not only a trip in a punt, but also something extra to make the day even more memorable. From pub trails to ghost trails there’s something to keep everyone occupied. Scudamore’s Punting Company also offers the Cambridge Challenge, a unique treasure hunt for young and old.

In recent years, punting has become popular with both stag and hen parties. Some groups choose to have a few glasses of wine and chat while others like to challenge each other on who is better at the difficult task of steering along the river on the flat-bottomed boat.

As well as a great activity for stag and hens to take part in, punting has also become hugely popular with those wanting to ‘pop the question’. A romantic river can be a wonderful location to let someone know just how you feel.

Most companies hire out punts for around £10 an hour although some may ask for a deposit as well.

To have a go at the traditional art of punting, try the following companies:

• Scudamores Punting Company, 01223 359750
• Cambridge Chauffer Punts, 01223 354164
• The Granta Boat & Punting Company, 01223 301845
• Trinity Punts, 01223 338483
• Tyrell’s Punting, 01480 413517
• Cherwell Boathouse, 01865 515978
• IPG Marine 0961 115369
• Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, 01865 202643