Wallingford
The historic market town of Wallingford, on the River Thames, is
an ideal base for exploring many parts of the Upper Thames Valley. It is conveniently
situated for Abingdon, Henley, Oxford and Reading, and it is within easy reach of the M40.
![]() |
Wallingford has a long and distinguished history with associations to several Kings of England as well as Oliver Cromwell. The great bridge, with its nineteen arches, has parts dating back to medieval times and 9th century earthworks, among the best preserved in the country, can still be seen. The remains of one of the strongest and largest castles in the country, built in 1066 by William the Conqueror, also make for a fascinating visit. In 1155 Henry II granted the town its Royal Charter. Among the buildings in the town, many examples of architecture from Elizabethan times can be seen.
![]() |
In and around Wallingford
Wallingford has a number of buildings of historic interest, and
various antiques and craft shops, many of which are situated in the High Street or in the
Lamb Arcade. The Museum houses artifacts showing the rich history of the area and there is
a variety of recreational activities and restaurants.
The town also offers good leisure facilities, including the Riverside Park with its swimming pool and boat hire.To the west of the town an old railway branch line recreates the time when steam trains ruled the tracks.
There are plenty of walks, from a stroll along the river to long walks through the nearby countryside, and only a short drive away is Little Wittenham Nature Reserve, which is rich in wildlife and offers wide views across the valley. The image on the right shows Wallingford as seen from Wittenham Clumps.
Other nearby attractions include Dorchester Abbey, Beale Park and the historic City of Oxford.
Further information
| Tourist Information Tourist Information Centre, Town Hall, Market Place, Wallingford, Oxfordshire. OX10 0EG Tel: 01491 826972 |
|
| How to get there Take junction 6 on the M40 and follow he signs to Benson. Take the A4071 signposted Wallingford. |
|
![]()
Your one-stop guide to the
Thames Valley and beyond!