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Located ten miles south of Oxford, Didcot exudes charm through its blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. Situated along the Great Western Main Line railway, Didcot has long been a vital hub of transportation and industry. Its name derives from “dede”, an Old English word meaning “pit” or “quarry”, reflecting its industrial heritage.
Didcot boasts a rich tapestry of cultural attractions and recreational opportunities. Cornerstone Arts Centre, housed in a modern, purpose-built facility, offers a range of performances, exhibitions and workshops, enriching the cultural fabric of the community.
Other attractions in town are the Orchard Centre for shopping, and the outdoor recreation areas of Edmonds Park, Ladygrove Park and Millenium Wood at the Hagbourne Triangle. A full list of parks and open spaces can be found via the Didcot Town Council website.
Didcot offers residents and visitors alike a unique blend of heritage, culture and natural beauty. Whether wandering through its historic streets, immersing oneself in its cultural offerings, or simply enjoying the tranquility of its surroundings, Didcot invites exploration and discovery at every turn.
The Didcot Railway Centre preserves the town’s railway heritage, featuring a collection of historic locomotives and offering steam train rides for enthusiasts of all ages. This 21-acre living museum has a unique collection of Great Western Railway locomotives, carriages, wagons, building and small artefacts, set around the original 1932 Engine Shed. The Railway Centre has also been frequently showcased in various movies, such as ‘Paddington 2’, Guy Ritchie’s ‘Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows’ and ‘Anna Karenina’ with Keira Knightley.
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Didcot’s picturesque surroundings, with ample green spaces and nature reserves to explore. The nearby Wittenham Clumps, a pair of wooded hills overlooking the Thames Valley, provide stunning panoramic views and opportunities for hiking, picnicking and wildlife spotting.
Alternative Outdoor recreation areas include Edmonds Park, Ladygrove Park, Millennium Wood and Hagbourne Triangle.
The area around Didcot is also known as one of the largest scientific clusters around the UK. It is home to many well-known science and technology campuses, such as Culham Science Centre, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, and Milton Park.
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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.