Abingdon

About

Abingdon–on–Thames, a quaint, bustling market town nestled on the river Thames just waiting to be explored, 6 miles south of Oxford.

Steeped in history and dating back to the Saxon era, Abingdon-On-Thames is a rare gem. Holding claim to ‘the oldest, continuously inhabited town in England’, Abingdon is a delight to visit. Stroll around the town and soak in the wealth of architecture, historical treasures, shopping, independent stores and of course the beautiful Thames river.

Abingdon-On-Thames has an intriguing museum housed in an elegant building with stunning rooftop views looking over the Town and beyond. There are also charming places to eat, and attractions to entertain the whole family. With so many places to visit and things to do in Abingdon including; riverside parks, gardens and a choice of leisure facilities including tennis, swimming, boating, fishing, waterside pubs and a Monday farmers market, you will be spoilt for choice.

Make sure you explore the site of the old Abingdon Abbey, which was supposedly founded in 675 by Cissa, viceroy of Centwine or his nephew Hean in honour of the Virgin Mary. Although nothing remains, the old Benedictine Abbey has a fascinating history and is well worth researching.

A few more historic buildings you may want to explore will include:

The Abbey Gateway, St Nicolas Church, Abbey Buildings, Trendell’s Folly, The lost Abbey Trail, St Helen’s Church, Long Alley Almhouse.

Abingdon has a fantastic ceremonial tradition of bun throwing; where local dignitaries throw buns off the roof of the Abingdon Museum for huge crowds of people to catch in celebration specific days. The last occasion was 10th November 2018 to mark 100 years years since the end of the First World War.

Abingdon has the Monday Charter Market which has a lot of variety but is not a farmers’ market which is each third Friday morning.

For a relaxing stay, just a mile from the quaint market town of Abingdon and six miles from historic Oxford, the Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon Oxford offers all-day dining in their own restaurant, 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a fitness centre.

There are a number of varied and interesting walks around Abingdon and the River Thames, you can find more information on the Abingdon walk and route map.