Watlington is a unique market town which nestles at the foot of the Chilterns below the white mark, carved out over 250 years ago, alongside the ancient Ridgeway national trail.
The town boasts a strong link to history, a front line in the English Civil War and the earlier battle between the Vikings and the Saxons as shown in the recently discovered Watlington Hoard housed in the Ashmolean Museum Oxford. In summer the swifts flit across from rooftops some of which stretch back to Tudor times, and all year-round red kites circle the town and surrounding countryside
In this small town there are three delightful pubs and two restaurants serving Indian, Thai, Pizzas and English Pub Grub, two cafes and great fish and chip shop .The freshest local fruit and vegetables can be purchased whilst enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the Town Hall Undercroft’s fruit and vegetable market every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. This market is held beneath Walington Town Hall, and was built by Thomas Stonor in 1664.
In this small town there are three delightful pubs and two restaurants serving Indian, Thai, Pizzas and English Pub Grub, two cafes and great fish and chip shop .The freshest local fruit and vegetables can be purchased whilst enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the Town Hall Undercroft’s fruit and vegetable market every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. This market is held beneath Walington Town Hall, and was built by Thomas Stonor in 1664.
When visitors stop, they are surprised by how much it has to offer, and they almost always return. The cluster of friendly, owner-run independent shops on the High Street provide a wide range of artisan offerings, from bread to bicycle repair, lighting to lamb chops, chocolates to chorizos, Scandi chic to Shoes & clothes. It’s also a great place to visit with kids, who will enjoy the freedom of large recreational area and paddock and a treat from the boutique children’s shop
At its centre is the Town Hall, built in 1664 which sits at the heart of busy high street which hosts a variety small, unique independent businesses. It has a strong community and three churches. There is a thriving music & art scene including concerts, annual Art Week festival plus a High St gallery and Arts-hub space.
Explore the natural beauty surrounding Watlington with scenic walks along the Ridgeway National Trail and Oxfordshire Way. Watlington Hill, on the western edge of the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, features the iconic chalk white mark and provides stunning views. It is a haven for birdwatchers, especially those keen to spot the majestic red kites. The area is also home to Sites of Special Scientific Interest, including the Watlington and Pyrton Hills, celebrated for their diverse flora and fauna.
With excellent access from M40, Henley and Wallingford plus good parking facilities and plenty of places to stay in the area, the town is easy to get to and you can be sure of a very warm welcome next time you ‘Visit Watlington’.
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