Oxford's Rivers - the Isis and the Cherwell
Oxford has two rivers running through it, and these have both been central to the development of the city.
For example it was the very fact that the River Thames could be easily forded here that meant that the area was first settled, and indeed the name of the town comes from the "oxen ford" that crossed the River at today's Folly Bridge.
The two rivers in Oxford are the River Isis and the River Cherwell. However it is an interesting fact that the River Isis is in fact the River Thames - within the city boundaries of Oxford it becomes the River Isis, although most people will still refer to it as the Thames.
Today the rivers are as much a part of Oxford as they ever were - offering picturesque views and a tranquil escape from the busy city centre.
And of course the rivers are where to head for if you want to take part in that ever so Oxford pasttime - punting.
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