Abingdon is a quaint, bustling market town nestled on the River Thames. Abingdon is steeped in history dating back to the Saxon era and a rare gem holding claim to ‘the oldest continuously inhabited town in England’.
Stroll around and soak in the wealth of architecture and historical treasures. Enjoy shopping in the array of independent shops and a walk along the beautiful River Thames. There are charming places to eat and attractions to entertain the whole family. There are so many places to visit and things to do in Abingdon including markets, parks, gardens and riverside pubs. There are a choice of leisure facilities, including tennis, swimming, boating and fishing.
Abingdon has an intriguing museum housed within the County Hall, with stunning rooftop views overlooking the Market Place and beyond.
The site of the Abingdon Abbey is believed to have been founded in honour of the Virgin Mary in 675 by Cissa, viceroy of Centwine or his nephew Hean.
The remains, consisting of atmospheric medieval buildings, are the oldest buildings in the town. The Abbey was the sixth richest in England and one of the first to be demolished in the Reformation in 1538. The remains were saved in 1944 by the Friends of Abingdon. They are now a scheduled monument and are architecturally Grade I listed.
A few more historic buildings to explore include the Abbey Gateway, St Nicolas Church, Trendell’s Folly, and St Helen’s Church and Long Alley Almshouses.
The Abbey Heritage Walk is a great opportunity to see these sites.
There are a number of varied and interesting walks around Abingdon and the River Thames. You can find more information on the Local Walks website, or by visiting our Walking Trails page.
Abingdon-on-Thames is a market town that still enjoys the unique atmosphere of a lively market.
Abingdon marketplace hosts the Charter Market every Monday, and hosts the Farmers’ Market on the third Friday of every month.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Abingdon, book a room at The Crown & Thistle. With a history dating back to 1605, this Grade II listed coaching inn comprises three individual buildings.
The local town website provides a host of further information about Abingdon.
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South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, Abbey House, Abbey Close, Abingdon, OX14 3JE
This website has been built as a joint venture by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, as part of a project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK, invest in communities and place, support local businesses and people, and develop skills.
For more information, read the UK Shared Prosperity Fund prospectus.
