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allingfordThe Wallingford Welcome

2015/2016 Edition

Experience

The

RiverThames

Wallingford

3

The Town Information Centre 2

Top 10 Things to do in Wallingford 4

Other places of interest 6

Wallingford - an Ancient Borough 8

Wallingford - The Later Years 12

Judge Blackstone 13

Agatha Christie 14

Remembering Wilding & Andrew 15

Wallingford Museum 16

The River Thames 18

Riverside Moorings 20

Wallingford Rowing Club 21

A Unique Shopping Experience 22

Cholsey & Wallingford Railway 31

The Corn Exchange 31

Nearby Places to Visit 32

Accommodation 34

Website Information & Map 35

Weddings in the Town Hall 36

The Wallingford Experience is produced by

Wallingford Town Council

Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents and information contained in this brochure were correct at time of going to press.

This is a Wallingford publication - Production by: NP Design & Print Ltd. 01491 824827

Contents

Town Information Centre

Town Information Centre - Undercroft - Town Hall - Market Place

T: 01491 826 972 E: tic@wallingfordtc.co.uk

The Information Centre is operated by the Town Council covering the local area - offering information on who to contact and where to go for what, directions, history and what’s on.

2015 is an important year

for Wallingford. The town

is one of only four that are

mentioned in the Magna

Carta which celebrates its

800 year anniversary this year.

This highlights the historic

importance of the town and

its enormous castle which

formerly held a prominent

position overlooking the

bridge across the River

Thames. Recent translation of

historic documents show that Wallingford Castle

played an even more significant role in history

than was previously thought. Wallingford Museum

contains a wealth of information for those eager to

find out more.

For a town of its size, Wallingford pushes the boat out

when it comes to events. It plays host to BunkFest,

a festival of music, dance and steam and one of

the largest open access music festivals in Europe,

welcoming folk performers from across the country

along with around 20,000 visitors. In May, there is

the Vehicle Rally and Parade which sees around 250

classic vehicles of various shapes and sizes parade

through the town followed by a display on the

Kinecroft. New to the calendar is the Agatha Christie

weekend in September. The world-famous writer

was a resident of Wallingford for over 40 years and

was Chairman of the local theatre group the Sinodun

Players. She is buried in our neighbouring village

Cholsey. Add to that the Food Festival, ‘Rugfest’, the

Blues & Beer Festival and the Carnival and you’re sure

to find something to suit your interests.

We are blessed with a wide variety of shops - a blend of recognised high street names and unique independent retailers. Along the High Street and in the Lamb Arcade you’ll find a great selection of antiques shops offering all kinds of gifts, trinkets and furniture. Overlooking the Market Place is the Corn Exchange, Wallingford’s very own independent cinema & theatre showing a variety of

performances and screenings all year round. Did you know that the Corn Exchange is also a very well-known location in hit TV series Midsomer Murders shown in over 200 countries worldwide?

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Wallingford’s location offers lots of opportunities to take in some fresh air. The River Thames is a very short stroll from the town centre offering walks along the Thames Path in both directions as well as boat trips to Abingdon. Alongside the river you’ll find our outdoor heated swimming pool and splashpark for children. A number of open spaces exist in the town itself, including the stunning Castle Gardens, so tranquil that you feel like you’re in your very own secret garden.

So whether you are spending time in Wallingford to browse or here for a specific event, there is so much to see and do. To find out more either visit us at www.wallingford.co.uk or pop into the Town Information Centre under the Town Hall. We will be delighted to see you!

Jamie BaskeyfieldTown Clerk 2015

Throughout the year local organisations put on a variety of events, to find out more visit out Town Information Centre, or log onto

www.wallingford.co.uk

Welcome to Wallingford

4 5

Wallingford is a small country market town on

the banks of the River Thames about 50 miles

to the west of London. It is well connected

by road and local bus services to Oxford,

Reading and Henley, and the nearby main line

railway station at Cholsey. Wallingford is an

ideal place in which to enjoy a day’s visit or to

take a short break to explore the surrounding

countryside.

1. Castle Gardens and Meadows

Explore the site of one of England’s strongest and most important castles. Crumbling castle ruins, earthworks and ramparts set in beautiful gardens.

2. River Thames

Wander along the Thames Path from Wallingford to Benson Lock or take a boat trip with Salter’s Steamers to Abingdon or Reading. A great way to take in the stunning surrounding countryside.

3. Agatha Christie Trail

Learn more about Wallingford’s former resident. This five mile circular walk takes in places linked to the writer including her former house in Winterbrook and her grave in nearby Cholsey.

4. Midsomer Murders Trails

Fans of popular TV series Midsomer Murders will recognise Wallingford as Causton, home to main character Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby. Explore filming locations around the town with the Midsomer Murders: The Wallingford Connections guide. There are also two Midsomer Murders driving tours taking in locations from surrounding areas and countryside. Head over to Wallingford Museum to see various paraphernalia from the series including photographs, scripts and props.

5. Cholsey & Wallingford Railway

This preserved section of railway known locally as the ‘Bunkline’ features a unique collection of steam engines, coaches, wagons, buildings and other rail memorabilia that will keep you entertained for hours.

6. Wallingford Museum

Find out more about Wallingford’s rich history, from Romans and Saxons and its important role in the Civil War to a Victorian street scene. Includes an audio taour and plenty of interactive things to keep the family entertained. Special exhibitions in 2015 are ‘Wallingford’s Royal Castle Revealed’ and ‘Magna Carta and all that’.

7. Explore the shops

Wallingford is well-renowned for its collection of independent shops and boutiques, selling everything from gifts and jewellery to household goods. The town also hosts an interesting collection of antiques shops where you can pick up all sorts of unique trinkets and furniture.

8. Riverside Splashpark and swimming pool

Take a dip in the outdoor heated pool and Splashpark located alongside the River, adjacent to the magnificent Wallingford Bridge. Also a perfect spot for a picnic.

9. Wallingford Historical walk

Discover Wallingford’s history on foot, from its Saxon heritage and historic churches, to important streets and industries.

10. Corn Exchange

On the east side of the Market Place is the former Corn Exchange (built in 1856) the roof of which is supported inside by iron beams cast by Wilder’s, a local foundry. The Sinodun Players now own the building and provide a varied programme of amateur productions, professional touring companies and up-to-date film screenings. Agatha Christie was president of the Sinodun Players from 1951 to 1976.

Top 10 things to do in Wallingford

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• The Town Hall

The town centre is dominated by the Town Hall, a timber-framed building constructed near to the site of the Guild Hall in 1670. It is here that the Town’s silver-gilt mace (made in 1650 at a cost of £46 18s 3d) is kept, together with the Town Plate and paintings. The open area underneath was once used for market stalls. It now houses the Town Information Centre which provides information about all of the local centres of interest and places to stay. The Charter Market is still held in the Market Place every Friday as it has done for over 800 years, along with a Farmers’ Market on the third Tuesday of each month, a Local Producers Market every Saturday and a Country market every Friday in the Regal Centre.

• Wallingford Bridge

Wallingford was important historically because of its excellent ford and today the same crossing place has one of the finest bridges on the River Thames. At 300m long it is only 5m shorter than the old London Bridge. The river has always brought particular delight whether looking towards the Chilterns or towards the town from the Crowmarsh side. One of the more impressive landmarks is the spire of St Peter’s Church with its delicate open design. The church includes a Morris and Co. design in one of its windows, and the tomb of Sir William Blackstone. The church is now home to a series of concerts during the summer given by established professional musicians and rising stars from the Royal School of Music.

• Wallingford Sports Park

The really energetic visitor should call in at the Wallingford Sports Park in the south west corner of the Town. This site is the centre for cricket, rugby, tennis, football, hockey, skittles and squash. Or, if being on or in water is more in your line, then Wallingford offers an openair heated swimming pool by the bridge and a top class Rowing Club.

• To make your visit even more enjoyable, Wallingford provides a wide variety of places to eat and drink and to suit all tastes. Traditional English meals, Indian, Thai, Chinese and Italian as well as snacks and pub food. For visitors

who wish to stay a little longer the town has a 15th century hotel in the town centre (where legend has it that Dick Turpin once stayed) and another hotel on the banks of the River Thames at nearby Shillingford. Bed-and-breakfast accommodation, and caravan and camping sites are also available (see accommodation guide on page 34).

This is just a sample of all the things that Wallingford has to offer its visitors. For more information contact the Town Information Centre. Tel: 01491 826972 (see inside front cover for more details)

Other places of interest

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Wallingford is a town steeped in history. From

the medieval bridge over the Thames to the

grassy banks of its ancient fortifications, it

proclaims a colourful past. It’s a town of

surprises with the bustle of the Market Place

and the tranquillity of the quiet back-streets

- a place to explore.

Earliest Times

It was the river that first attracted settlers to the area and in the Bronze and Iron Ages the rich soils encouraged farming communities. The Romans in turn left traces of occupation - burials, roads, coins and pottery, but it was left to the Anglo-Saxons to build the first town.

A large 6th century pagan cemetery found in Wallingford indicates the early presence of the

Saxon newcomers but by the 9th century there was another invasion threat - this time from the Vikings. King Alfred, the Saxon king of Wessex, defeated the enemy but to defend his kingdom against further Viking attacks he built many fortified towns or burhs and here the story of the town really begins.

The Town is Born

Wallingford was the biggest of Alfred’s newly fortified towns - as large as his capital, Winchester. It was enclosed on three sides by earthen walls, capped with a wooden palisade and surrounded by a wet moat - the remains of which can still be seen today, most clearly in the Kinecroft, Bullcroft and castle grounds. The river and a bridgehead formed the fourth side of the town’s defence and the original 9th century street layout is still largely unchanged. St Leonard’s church has surviving Anglo-Saxon features, and as you shop in Waitrose, spare a thought for the long lost Saxon church of St Martin and its former worshippers who lie quietly beneath in a large cemetery! Coins were struck in Wallingford at a Royal Mint and Saxon kings held land in the town and kept soldiers here. By 1066, when the next invader arrived, Wallingford was the leading town in Berkshire.

1066 and All That!

In 1066, fresh from winning the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror came to Wallingford seeking a suitable place to cross the Thames with his army. Wigod, the lord of Wallingford, welcomed William, and for their co-operation the people of Wallingford were given an extra hour before curfew - 9pm instead of 8pm. The curfew bell still tolls just before nine, declaring the king’s ancient favour. One of William’s knights married Wigod’s daughter and, on William’s instructions, the Normans began in 1067 to build a massive castle here which was to dominate the town’s history for the next 600 years.

Granting of the Charter – 1155

The first phase of Wallingford Castle was complete by 1071 but it was later expanded to have three walls and ditches and to be one of the most impressive and powerful castles in England. During the 12th century Civil War between Queen Matilda and her cousin Stephen, Wallingford was the chief stronghold of the Queen in central England and here the treaty that concluded the war was first agreed in 1153. In 1155, Henry II held his first Great Council at Wallingford. He openly rewarded the town for supporting his mother Matilda, by granting it a

magnificent Charter of Liberties - one of the oldest in England. Together with many special privileges, this Charter confirmed Wallingford’s ancient rights to have its own Guild and Burgesses and to hold regular markets, traditions which continue to this day. The town’s regalia, including the 17th century silver-gilt mace, are still used and are displayed in the Town Hall.

The Medieval Town

By the 13th century, Wallingford had 11 parishes, each with its own church - one of which was also the Priory, a cell of St Alban’s Abbey. Besides these there was the Free Hospital of St John, a College of Canons of St Nicholas in the castle and two gate chapels.

By the end of the next century, the ravages of the Black Death had taken their toll. At least a third of the townspeople died and only four churches were left in use. This, together with the growth of rival towns and the building of a new bridge at Abingdon as an alternative route for traders, had led to a severe economic decline in the life of the town.

Royal Connections

The castle belonged to the King but in the 14th century it became part of the Duchy of Cornwall, passing to the eldest son of the monarch. It always witnessed frequent royal visitors and residents, including King John and his younger son, Richard Earl of Cornwall, who greatly extended it. Edward II gave it to his favourite, Piers Gaveston, who held a huge tournament in the castle ward in 1307. Edward II’s wife, Isabella, plotted here against her husband with Roger Mortimer, who was involved in Edward’s subsequent murder. Isabella spent her later life living in the castle. Her grandson, Edward the Black Prince, kept Wallingford as his principal residence.

Wallingford - an Ancient Borough

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Constables appointed to look after the castle included Thomas Chaucer (son of the poet Geoffrey) and William, Duke of Suffolk, and his wife Alice, (Geoffrey’s grand-daughter) who were benefactors of the 15th century school and almshouses which are still in use in nearby Ewelme.

Also in the 15th century, Owen Tudor had the task of protecting the young King Henry VI who was tutored at Wallingford Castle. Owen formed a liaison with Henry’s young widowed mother, Katherine of Valois, and from this affair came the great line of the Tudor Kings of England.

Change & Decay

By the 16th century the castle was decaying. There was less need for strong castles in the more settled times of the Tudors and Henry VIII shipped timber and lead from Wallingford down river by barge to enlarge his castle at Windsor.

Wallingford & the Civil War 1642-1651

When a dispute arose between Charles I and Parliament, Wallingford Castle once more had a major role to play in a Civil War. The King, driven out of London, set up his court in Oxford. Round this Royalist centre a ring of strongholds was established to protect the King and Wallingford Castle was one of them - refortified to meet the challenge of modern warfare. The Governor, Colonel Blagge, repaired the inner castle walls and demolished the nearby All Hallows Church to prevent its use as an enemy gun emplacement. The king made several visits to Wallingford and castle troops were engaged in many local skirmishes and battles.

Wallingford Under Siege

By 1646, events had turned against the King. He was forced to leave Oxford, which surrendered to Parliament in June. Now only Wallingford remained,

its garrison faithfully holding the town and castle for the King under the leadership of Colonel Blagge.

After a twelve week siege, the king was defeated elsewhere, so honourable surrender terms were finally agreed. Colonel Blagge’s men almost mutinied over lack of pay, but on July 27th 1646, he led his gallant garrison out of Wallingford Castle with full honours. They were allowed to march, with

their weapons at the ready, ten miles from the town before disbanding to return to their homes.

The castle was then garrisoned by Parliament and used as a prison but in 1652 Oliver Cromwell’s Council of State decided it was too great a risk to allow it to remain. They ordered - and paid for - its total demolition. The castle stone was sold and some of it was used to build a new tower for St Mary’s church.

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St. Leonard’s

St. Leonard’s

St. Peter’s

William Blackstone was born in London in 1723, the posthumous son of a silk mercer. He was orphaned at 12, but through the generosity of two of his mother’s family, (Charles and Thomas Bigg, distant kinsmen of Walter Bigg who founded Wallingford School), he was educated at Charterhouse, where he became Head of School. At the age of 15, he went on to Pembroke College, Oxford to gain a degree in Civil Law.

In 1741 he entered the Inner Temple in London and two years later was elected a Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford where he quickly rose to become Senior Bursar and acquired a reputation as a man who got things done. Meanwhile, he had also been called to the Bar in London but his inability to speak fluently in public made him an unsuccessful barrister, so he left London to become an Oxford academic. In 1758, after some successful involvement in University politics, he became the first Vinerian Professor of Common Law. He was just 35.

Importantly for Wallingford, he had also taken over a job from his lawyer uncle, Seymour Richmond, - that of Recorder of Wallingford - an office he held for 21 years, from 1749 to 1770. The Recorder was basically Magistrate for the Borough which meant that he presided over the Quarter Sessions held in the Town Hall. When he was in Wallingford, Blackstone lived in a house in Thames Street leased for him by Thomas Bigg. Around 1758, Blackstone purchased the property which became his principal home until his death. He substantially rebuilt the house as an 18th century mansion with considerably enlarged grounds. It is now known as Castle Priory.

In 1761 he married Sarah Clitherow by whom he had nine children. The following day he was made King’s Counsel (KC). Two years later he was appointed Solicitor General to Charlotte, wife of the future King George III.

Judge Blackstone is internationally famed for his books, written whilst he was a resident

of Wallingford. Between 1765 and 1776, he published four volumes of lectures called Commentaries on the Laws of

England. It was the first major attempt to create a reference book on English civil

law and it rapidly became a fundamental legal textbook, earning him a fortune. Following the American Declaration of Independence in 1776, the Commentaries formed the basis of the new United States Constitution and legal system and Blackstone’s is a familiar name to most Americans.

He gave up his post as Recorder of Wallingford in 1770 when he was appointed Justice in

the Court of Common Pleas and was knighted by King George III, but he spent most of his later life at Castle Priory and was Churchwarden of St Peter’s.

Between 1769 and 1775 he encouraged the re-building of St Peter’s Church and he

donated money towards the Spire and gave the Communion Silver.

He suffered ill-health towards the end of his life and died at the age of 57 on 14 February 1780 - he is buried in St Peter’s Church where there is a memorial to him.

© Judy Dewey 2014

Wallingford - The Later Years

After the demolition of the castle, Wallingford settled down to its role as an ordinary market town. Its brewing and malting industries, together with later iron-founding, complemented the rural communities in the surrounding area and survived until fairly recently.

Of the town’s numerous parish churches there are just three left today - but they and the many nonconformist chapels are worth a visit.

St Leonard’s is the earliest, with late Saxon work in the walls and Norman work inside. St Mary’s was rebuilt in the 19th century but it retains the 17th century tower built from the castle stone and the monuments inside reflect the many benefactors of the town. St Peter’s is now a redundant church but it is notable for its 18th century architecture and spire and as the burial place of the famed Sir William Blackstone who was a churchwarden, living most of his later life in nearby Castle Priory.

He is internationally famed for his law books, written in Wallingford, which formed the basis of the Constitution of the United States. For 21 years, from 1749 to 1770, when he was appointed Justice in the Court of Common Pleas, he was Recorder of Wallingford, presiding over the Quarter Sessions in

the Town Hall where there is now a Blue Plaque in his memory.

The present Roman Catholic Church in the Market Place began life as a Congregational chapel in 1799!

The Baptist Church was founded in 1794 and the Methodist chapel was built in 1870. A

fine Quaker Meeting House, opened in 1724, is tucked away in Castle Street.

The railway came in 1866 in the form of a branch line from Cholsey and

the ’Bunk’, as it was known, continued until the axe fell in 1959. Now the Cholsey

& Wallingford Railway Preservation Society runs the line.

Wallingford continues its long tradition as a Market Town but today the medieval stalls have been replaced by a weekly Friday Market, a monthly Farmers’ Market, and an exciting mixture of independent businesses, long-established family shops and a supermarket. It also seems appropriate that there is a wealth of antique shops in the town to delight collectors and browsers with remnants of the past, whilst the town’s delightful museum in the High Street brings the whole Wallingford Story vividly to life.

© Judy Dewey 2014

St. Mary’s St. Peter’s

Judge Blackstone & Wallingford

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Agatha Christie, ‘The Queen of Crime’, is one of Wallingford’s best kept secrets. She and her husband, the eminent archaeologist Sir Max Mallowan, lived at Winterbrook House (pictured above) on the outskirts of Wallingford from 1934 until her death in 1976. She and Sir Max owned other houses in Devon and London, but Wallingford was ‘home’ according to her grandson Mathew Pritchard. Here she found the peace to write many of her later novels. Wallingford is mentioned in Cards on the Table (1936) and descriptions of ‘Market Basing’ in Dumb Witness (1937) are thought to refer to Wallingford.

She took care to avoid any local publicity but she agreed to become President of The Sinodun Players drama group in 1951 and thoroughly enjoyed attending performances, especially pantomimes, of which she was very fond. A series of letters testify to her involvement and form part of a special exhibition about her at Wallingford Museum. She died in the week that the Sinodun Players announced their intention to convert the Corn Exchange to a theatre.

Her husband Sir Max Mallowan, writing shortly after Agatha’s death, commented: ‘What was truly valuable in Wallingford was her privacy and freedom from social involvement for in this way she was able

to devote her time to creative work which gave pleasure to millions.’

Winterbrook House lies just within the Parish of Cholsey and Agatha was a regular worshipper at Cholsey Church. She is buried with Sir Max

in the north-west corner of Cholsey churchyard – a place of pilgrimage for

visitors from all over the world who have enjoyed her eighty novels. Wallingford is holding a special Agatha Christie Weekend in September with events, walks and entertainment to mark her association with the town.

The murder theme in Wallingford is also known worldwide through the Midsomer Murders television series where the town has featured as ‘Causton’, home of Inspector Barnaby, in several episodes. The first was Death of a Hollow Man, set in the ‘Causton Theatre’ (Wallingford Corn Exchange). Several of the Sinodun Players appear regularly as supporting artistes.

© Judy Dewey 2014

On the 9th September 1944, the 426 (Thunderbird) Squadron, 4 Group, Bomber Command, of the Royal Canadian Air Force left Linton-on-Ouse, York. They were to make a sortie to Le Havre but the weather made it impossible to bomb with accuracy and the attack was called off.

One Halifax VII bomber, NP68I was hit by flak. To land safely back in Linton several bombs were ditched in the English Channel, leaving ten 500lb bombs on board. The plane was engulfed in smoke and flames. The pilot, John Wilding, gave the order to abandon the aircraft. MacKay, the rear gunner, advised that the turret was unserviceable. Wilding told him not to panic, to do the best he could to get out saying “I’ll try to hold it”.

MacKay using his feet pushed until the door gave way. An explosion followed and he rolled out through a sheet of flames and landed with an injured left leg.

The wireless operator, Thorb (Tommy) Thompson bailed out, as did the navigator, Ed O’Meara. The bomb aimer, Len Irving, was the last to leave by the front hatch.

During its last few moments the aircraft was guided between Wallingford and Benson. It was seen to turn over on its back and spin in.

The plane came down at Newnham Murren, Crowmarsh, about 500 yards from the eastern boundary of Wallingford. Three tons of bombs still aboard, the aircraft exploded, the blast shaking the town’s buildings and shattering windows.

John Wilding’s body was found a few hundred yards away from the crater where the aircraft hit.

John Andrew’s body was found about twentyfive yards away from John Wilding with his parachute harness attached, his parachute pack lying unopened beside his body.

Flying Officer J.A.Wilding, although from New York City, emigrated with his family from Bolton in Lancashire. He was on his 20th sortie. He is buried in the Brookwood Military Cemetery in Woking, Surrey. For his actions with the Squadron he was awarded the DFC and an MiD posthumously.

Sergeant J.F.Andrew, is buried in Kerry Cemetery, Powys. He was credited with 15 sorties.

On the 21st May 1960 a cairn and plaque in memory of the two airmen who were killed was unveiled. It stands at the junction of Wilding and Andrew roads which are named after them.

A service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance has been a statutory part of the Town events and every 9th September the Canadian flag flies over the town hall.

Pilot: Flying Officer J.A.Wilding, DFC RCAF

(killed) aged 23 from New York.

Crew: Sgt J.F.Andrew, RAF Voluntary Reserve,

(killed) aged 22 from Wales.

Flying Officer E.N.O’Meara RCAF.

Flight Sgt R.M.Irving RCAF.

Flight Sgt R.T.Thompson RCAF.

Flight Sgt G.W.McCreary RCAF.

Flight Sgt P.W.MacKay RCAF (injured).

Remembering Wilding & AndrewAgatha Christie

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Wallingford Museum is a colourful and delightfully intimate local history museum, housed on two floors in the medieval oakbeamed Flint House opposite the Saxon banks in the Kinecroft and next to the Public Library. There is ample car-parking behind the nearby Waitrose.

Run entirely by volunteers, the Museum opened in 1981 and in 2005 it doubled in size to include the ground floor. If you can, allow at least 1 1/2 hours for your visit

The permanent displays tell The Wallingford Story – from Roman times to the modern day - an unfolding maze brought to life by our free audio-tour. At the centre of the display, the visitor climbs up ‘stone’ steps to the top of the castle to see the medieval town laid out before them and a scale model of Wallingford Castle which reveals its enormous size and three-moated defences.

Elsewhere, in the Victorian Courtyard there is a walk-in shop, a pub, a workshop and a peep-show which recreates the experience of a family entering the Workhouse. The Transport Gallery tells the story of river, road and railway in Wallingford, with historic photographs and models of Wallingford Bridge,

Thames weirs and Wallingford Station. There are special features on local celebrities like Judge Blackstone, author of the famous Commentaries on the Laws of England which were influential in the drawing up of the Constitution and laws of the fledgling United States of America. Other local celebrities are the Victorian Artists, the professional painters of the Leslie & Hayllar families and their friend Claude Rowbotham who were neighbours in Wallingford.

Most famous of all was ‘Queen of Crime’, Dame Agatha Christie who lived in the town for forty-two years with her second husband, the archaeologist Sir Max Mallowan. Agatha Christie was a very private person but she was President of the local amateur dramatic group, the Sinodun Players. A fascinating display details personal letters, her home, local memories, her death and her burial in nearby Cholsey in 1976.

Crime also figures in a feature on Midsomer Murders - Wallingford was ‘Causton’ in the hit TV series and many locals took part in several episodes.

Local archaeology enhances other lively displays: Wallingford Before the Town - with prehistoric artefacts and a Roman skeleton; Wallingford Priory

Welcome to Wallingford Museum- a Benedictine cell of St Alban’s Abbey, famous for medieval clockmaker, Richard of Wallingford; St Martin’s Church which lay beneath the present Waitrose - and don’t miss our family friendly ‘Touchy Feely’ drawers and fun sandpits to ‘dig’ in for real archaeological finds.

For 2015, our new exhibitions will be ‘Wallingford’s Royal Castle Revealed’ and ‘Magna Carta and All That!’ which present new research into documents that have shown Wallingford Castle’s importance as a great stronghold of the Thames Valley with new details of the life of the castle, and highlight the town’s connection with King John and Magna Carta.

Special events include guided History Walks (11 April), a Night at the Museum (15 May), Family Archaeology Day (18 July), a Medieval Day (15 Aug) and an Agatha Christie weekend (18-20 Sept).

Wallingford Museum is open from March to November, 2.00-5.00pm weekdays (except Mon),

10.30am- 5.00pm Saturdays, 2.00-5.00pm Sundays (June-Aug) & Bank Hols. Children are free and Adults £4.00 for unlimited admission all season.

Access: sorry, downstairs galleries only accessible for wheelchair users but audio-video of ‘The Wallingford Story’ is available to watch on request.

Contact us for details of group and school visits (inc. out of hours) and guided town and castle walks

© Judy Dewey 2014

www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk.

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The River Thames

Welcome to the River Thames which flows through South Oxfordshire for approximately 48 miles, the longest stretch of the river in any one county.

Boat trips

One of the many ways to explore the Thames is by boat and organised boat trips run in the summer months from the Riverside Park. Nearby Benson has rowing boats, canoes and motorboats for hire by the hour.

Walking

Alternatively, for the more energetic, you could walk the Thames Path. Our stretch of the Thames at Wallingford is one of the most beautiful in the country.

Royal Swan Upping

A sight not to be missed is Royal Swan Upping, an annual ceremonial voyage along the River Thames in which a census of the swan population is taken. It takes place during the third week in July of each year.

Riverside park and swimming pool

Our Riverside Park is the perfect venue for you to enjoy a picnic, the outdoor heated swimming pool and the splashpark.

Camping & Caravanning

If its camping or caravanning you’re after, here are two superb sites within easy walking distance of the river and town.

Riverside Park

The Street, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford Oxfordshire OX10 8EB Telephone: +44 (0)1491 835232 www.better.org.uk/leisure/riverside-park-and-pools

Bridge Villa Caravan & Camping

The Street, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford Oxfordshire OX10 8HB Telephone: +44 (0)1491 836860 www.bridgevilla.co.uk/

20 21

For visitors to the town arriving by boat, there are excellent moorings located very close to the ancient Wallingford Bridge, just a short walk from the centre of historic Wallingford. This stretch of the Thames in beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside was the setting for Jerome K. Jerome’s story, ‘Three Men In a Boat’ and is used by the Oxford Boat Race crew for training.

Resting here beside the ancient bridge you can absorb some of Wallingford’s history. Head into the centre of town to peruse the many independent shops or find out more about the town at the Museum located in the High Street and the Town Information Centre in the Market Place. While you are there why not visit the Corn Exchange which is featured as Causton in the TV drama Midsomer Murders, then relax in one of the many coffee shops, pubs and restaurants.

What better spot to stay awhile with excellent moorings on both sides of the river with on-site facilities which

include waste, recycling facilities and a stand pipe for the collection of water. The shower block is situated within the campsite and the swimming pool area.

Cost per night = £5

For more information, call 01491 835373

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Riverside Moorings

Wallingford has always been well known and

famous for the river, indeed taking its name from

the crossing it provided to people and animals. A

whole host of people are still actively using the

river, especially the town’s oarsmen and women.

The Rowing Club is situated in an old part of

the town by the river on the longest stretch of

water on the “Upper Thames”. This six and a half

mile stretch between the locks of Benson and

Cleeve gives plenty of uninterrupted water for its

members to train on.

In the club’s relatively young history (over 60

years) crews from Wallingford have become

feared and respected by other boat clubs all over

the country. They have had success on several

occasions at Henley Royal Regatta and many of

the members have represented Great Britain at

the World Championships and Olympic Games.

Great Britain’s youngest male Olympian; Ken Lester,

a cox in the 1960 Rome Olympics was born in the

same year as the Rowing Club was founded. He

is still living in Wallingford and continues to enjoy

using the Club’s facilities.

Wallingford Rowing Club

New members and visitors, both active

and social are always welcome.

For further information visit

www.wallingfordrc.co.uk

22 23

Left hand side from bridge

Wallingford Tandoori4 High Street01491 833133

Summers Davies AntiquesCalleva House 6 High Street01491 836284

Mike Ottrey Antiques 16 High Street01491 836429

Hot Nails 20 High Street07748 423760

Castle Osteopathic & Natural Health Clinic23 High Street01491 838363

Spirit Hair Salon23-24 High Street01491 834155

Forresters Hair Salon25 High Street01491 837523

O’Donnell Antiques26 High Street01491 839332

Brooker & Breeze - Goldsmiths27 High Street01491 835050

Catherine’s Cafe28 High Street01491 838122

The Gallery30 High Street01491 828202

Right hand side from bridge

The Boat House - Bar & Grill103 High Street01491 834100

The Town Arms - Public HouseHigh Street01491 837773

Avanti Italian Restaurant85 High Street01491 835500

The George HotelHigh Street01491 836665

Wallingford today offers a wonderful mix of old and new. The ancient town centre houses many excellent and varied independent shops.

Antiques

The High Street hosts a number of antiques shops selling a variety of items from jewellery and small trinkets to furniture and decorative items. The Lamb Arcade, once an old coaching inn, is now a unique shopping experience with multiple antiques dealers under one roof.

Clothing and accessories

There are a number of ladies wear and accessories shops around the Market Place and in St Mary’s Street as well as shoe shops. There, you’ll also find a Bridal shop with wedding dresses and accessories. At the southern end of St Mary’s Street you’ll find a milliners selling a unique selection of hats and fascinators.

Wallingford is home to Pettit’s department store, established in the town in 1856, selling a range of menswear, ladies wear and lingerie (currently under refurbishment)

Household items

You’ll find everything you need for your home at the hardware shop on St Mary’s Street. Visit St Peter’s Place for curtain design and a lightings and accessories shop.

Cards, gifts and jewellery

You’re not short of options when it comes to buying gifts and jewellery in Wallingford. There are jewellers selling newly created designs as well as repaired antique pieces located on the High Street and St Martin’s Street. There are a number of shops selling unique gifts and trinkets for your home at both ends of St Martin’s Street and St Mary’s Street. A card shop can also be found on St Mary’s Street and florists on St Martin’s Street and in the Market Place.

Sport

On St Martin’s Street is a bike shop selling everything a cyclist could need and with a workshop offering repairs and upgrades. On St Mary’s Street is a sports shop stocking of a wide range of sporting equipment, specialist clothing, footwear, accessories and fitness/leisurewear.

Hobbies, art and books

There are shops trading in arts and craftwork materials located on St Mary’s Street and St Martin’s Street. St Martin’s Street is also home to the town’s book shop and also an art gallery and framers. Interested in patchwork and quilting? You’ll find everything you need at the specialist centre on St Leonard’s Square at the southern end of town.

Hair & beauty

You’ll have no problem finding somewhere to get your hair cut and styled with many hair salons and barbers in the town centre. There are also beauty salons on St Mary’s Street and a nail bar on the High Street.

Health

There are two pharmacies located in the Market Place, an osteopathy clinic on the High Street and opticians on St Mary’s and St Martin’s Streets.

Markets

There are four markets in Wallingford selling everything from fruit and veg to unique gifts:

Farmers’ market – every third Tuesday and fifth Saturday of the month in the Market Place

Local Producers Market – every Saturday in the Regal Centre

Country Market – every Friday in the Regal Centre

Charter Market – every Friday in the Market Place

and much more…

Butchers and fishmongers, pet shop, shoe repairs, independent travel agents, traditional sweet shop, newsagents and stationers, office supplies, photographers and a tea & coffee shop with its very own blends. Plus there are plenty of inviting pubs, restaurants and cafes for you to take a break.

A Unique Shopping Experience... High Street

24 25

Wallingford Squash Club & Sports Shop86 High Street01491 835072

NatWest BankHigh Street0845 3020748

The Lamb Arcade - Lifestyle Centre, featuring; Antiques, Vintage, Retro Relics, and Modern Classics 83 High Street 01491 835166

Oxfam - Charity Shop 81 High Street01491 834179

Beauty Essentials Rear of 81 High Street (entrance from Castle Street)07583 371198

Mary Handy Hair & Beauty Salon 80 High Street01491 598323

Welcome - Chinese Take Away79 High Street01491 839112

The Body Training Studio77-78 High Street01491 826682

Anokhi Cuisine - Bangladeshi and Indian Restaurant76 High Street01491 838077

Waters Violins75 High Street01491 825616

Style Acre Charity Shop74 High Street01491 824627

Thames Valet - Dry Cleaners & Launderers73 High Street01491 834077

Thomas Merrifield - Estate Agents72 High Street01491 833833

Delhi Brasserie - Indian Restaurant 66 High Street01491 824597 or 01491 826666

Smarts Fish & Chips - Takeaway64 - 65 High Street01491 824411

Wallingford Museum Flint HouseHigh Street01491 835065

Wallingford LibraryHigh Street01491 837395

The Cross Keys - Public House48 High Street01491 826377

High Street - right hand side from bridge Market Place

Barclays Bank2 Market Place0845 7555555

Costa Coffee3 Market Place01491 837990

Lloyds Bank4 Market Place0845 3000 000

Corn Exchange - Theatre & CinemaMarket Place01491 825000

Greggs Bakers6 Market Place01491 836267

Boots The Chemist7 - 8 Market Place01491 839061

First Edition - Ladies Fashion & Shoes9 Market Place01491 837195

Triangle TravelOxford House01491 825155

Branching Out - Florist13 Market Place01491 833366

Mistral - Ladies Fashion14 Market Place01491 832797

Cancer Research - Charity Shop17 Market Place01491 837475

KP Stationers18 Market Place01491 837979

Post OfficeRear of Feathers Yard01491 837979

Lloyds Pharmacy20 - 21 Market Place01491 836206

Coral Bookmakers23 Market Place0800 242232

Helen & Douglas House - Charity Shop24 Market Place 01491 833589

Wallingford Town Information CentreUndercroft, Town Hall, Market Place01491 826972

26 27

Patricia Hayselden & Partners - Opticians60 St Mary’s Street01491 835466

Full Circle - Travel Agents59 St Mary’s Street01491 833227

A Step Ahead - Hair Studio56 St Mary’s Street01491 832323

Mr Simms - Olde Sweet Shop56a St Mary’s Street07810 765483

Oxfam - Charity Shop53b St Mary’s Street01491 835831

Rags in Bags - Ladies Wear53a St Mary’s Street01491 838819

Pettits Toy Shop53 St Mary’s Street07889 408225

The Health Store Wallingford52 St Mary’s Street01491 833492

Indigo Rye - Hairdressers51 St Mary’s Street01491 834141

Pettits of Wallingford - Department Store(under refurbishment in 2015/6)

46 - 50 St Mary’s Street01491 835253

Cutler Architects43 St Mary’s Street01491 838130

JP Knight - Property Agents42 St Mary’s Street01491 834349

The Coachmakers Arms Tavern37 St Mary’s Street01491 832231

Louise Claire Millinery36 St Mary’s Street01491 826244

St Mary’s Street - left hand side from High Street

Artmatters - Art & Craft Materials1 St Mary’s Street01491 826686

The Dolphin - Public House2 St Mary’s Street01491 837377

Clarks - Shoe Retailers5 St Mary’s Street01491 836112

Allen & Harris - Estate Agents6 St Mary’s Street01491 835135

Champion & Co Ltd - Ironmongers7 St Mary’s Street01491 836271

House of Cards - Greetings Cards etc9 St Mary’s Street01491 826750

Pizza Express12 St Mary’s Street01491 833431

Shoes in Twos14 St Mary’s Street01491 826620

Nationwide Building Society15 St Mary’s Street0845 2660744

Sportswise16 St Mary’s Street01491 834585

HomeBase Management - Letting Agents16(B) St Mary’s Street01491 824470

Just Trading of Wallingford Ltd 17 St Mary’s Street01491 824778

The Bridelicious Boutique19 St Mary’s Street01491 826699

Feet First - Shoe Repairs & Travel Goods21 St Mary’s Street01491 825224

Thames Hair Salon - Barbers21 St Mary’s Street01491 837124

Buskers Gift Centre21 St Mary’s Street01491 839771

St Mary’s Dental Practice21a St Mary’s Street01491 825252

The Fountain Christian Bookshop21b St Mary’s Street01491 839511

Julies - Ladies Hairdressers24 St Mary’s Street01491 836030

Beauty Corner24 St Mary’s Street01491 836626

Beijing Diner - Chinese Restaurant26 St Mary’s Street01491 826908

The Partridge - Country Pub & Eating32 St Mary’s Street01491 825005

St Mary’s Street - right hand side from High Street

28 29

Pizza Cafe2 St Mary’s Arcade01491 826222

Hornsby Dunmore - Gift Emporium6 St Mary’s Arcade01491 825742

More Than Images5-7 St Mary’s Arcade0800 5427852

Village Fabrics - Patchwork & Quilting Supplies4-5 St Leonard’s Square 01491 204100

Look In - Hairdressing for MenSt Leonard’s Square 07710 479003

The Green Tree - Public HouseSt Leonard’s Square01491 835355

St Martins Street - right hand side from High Street

Waitrose1 St Martin’s Street01491 832030

Sue Ryder - Charity Shop4 St Martin’s Street01491 825714

Chancellors - Estate Agents5 St Martin’s Street01491 837567

Salvador’s Deli5a St Martin’s Street01491 825708

The Old Post Office - Restaurant St Martin’s Street01491 839348

U.S.A Takeaway 6 St Martin’s Street01491 835777

Wallingford Tea & Coffee Shop6a St Martin’s Street01491 836263

Robert Stanley Opticians8 St Martin’s Street01491 837033

The Flower and Gift Studio - Florist 10 St Martin’s Street 01491 825365

Care Dry Cleaners 10b St Martin’s Street01491 837318

Wallingford Bookshop10c St Martin’s Street01491 834383

Rides on Air - Cycle Shop 11 St Martin’s Street01491 836289

The Cooperative Funeralcare18 St Martin’s Street020 8669 2651

Pettits Fashion & Lingerie19 St Martin’s Street07833 157640

Master Floors 20 St Martin’s Street01491 833701

Pettits Mens Department21 St Martin’s Street07775 348652

Lesters - Estate Agents23 St Martin’s Street01491 824000

MGJ Jewellers Ltd1a St Martin’s Street01491 834336

Occasions Unlimited - Cards & Gifts 1b St Martin’s Street

Bloomers - Sandwich Bar & Restaurant53 St Martin’s Street01491 825465

Davis Tate – Estate Agents51 St Martin’s Street01491 833323

Bijoux Gallerie Ltd - Gifts and Jewellery 50 St Martin’s Street01491 835485

Sibos - Mens Hairdressers45 St Martin’s Street01491 838505

Poppycraft - Craftwork Materials36 St Martin’s Street 01491 833344

Down To Earth - Home & Gifts 35 St Martin’s Street01491 833779

Gary Smith Butchers & Fishmongers 34 St Martin’s Street01491 833553

St Martins Street - left hand side from High Street

St Leonard’s SquareSt Mary’s Arcade

30 31

The Cholsey and Wallingford Railway has been preserving Wallingford’s railway heritage since 1981.

The ex-GWR branch line runs for nearly three miles through the countryside and terminates at the village of Cholsey. From here passengers may board trains to Reading, Oxford and beyond.

The railway society has five residential heritage diesel locomotives and various visiting steam engines; all of our passenger carrying rolling stock is over 50 years old.

The railway is open for passengers on approximately 35 days per year between Easter and Christmas.

Special events are run at Easter, Halloween, Christmas and at BunkFest.

Visitors are always welcome to look around on non-running days. There is

usually somebody at the station on most weekends.

The railway is a non profit making charitable trust which is staffed entirely by volunteers. If you could become a volunteering member and help out at the railway please come along - you will receive a warm welcome.

Contact: 01491 835067or visit: www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com

Cholsey and Wallingford RailwayCastle Street

Boots OpticiansIncorporating Dollond & AitchisonI Castle Street01491 833200

Hong Kong House - Chinese Take Away2 Castle Street01491 835453

Higgs - Printing & Office Supplies3 Castle Street01491 837205

In-House Estate Agents4 Castle Street01491 839999

The Thai CornerLamb ArcadeCastle Street01491 825050

Clean Machine - Sales & Hire Centre1-2 St Peters Place01491 825600

A.G. Curtain Design3 St Peters Place01491 834238

First Cut - Ladies Hairdresser4 St Peters Place01491 833225

Illumin-Nation Ltd - Lighting & Accessories5 St Peters Place01491 833505

St Peters Place

Wallingford’s Corn Exchange is the town’s premier entertainment venue. The independent cinema and theatre features productions and screenings each week throughout the year. Bar open Friday and Saturday morning and pre-show in the evening.

Call the box office on 01491 825000 or visit www.cornexchange.org.uk

The Corn Exchange - theatre, cinema & bar

32 33

Whether you are visiting the Town for a day or planning a longer break to enjoy the surrounding area, there is plenty to do whatever your age or interests.

Wittenham Clumps

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of south Oxfordshire. The iconic landscape of the Wittenham Clumps is made up of Castle Hill and Round Hill known for the clumps of beech trees which crown them. These are the oldest known planted hilltop beeches in England, dating back over 300 years. Walk through the wildflower meadow and discover local wildlife and ancient archaeological features. Managed by the Earth Trust, Wittenham Clumps are open to all, free of charge, 365 days a year. The Trust runs a varied programme of family events throughout the year. For more information visit www.earthtrust.org.uk.

Pendon Museum

The Pendon Museum in the nearby village of Long Wittenham brings the past alive with its miniature railway and village. For more information, visit www.pendonmuseum.com

Didcot Railway Centre

A unique collection of Great Western Railway steam engines, coaches, wagons, buildings and small relics; and a recreation of Brunel’s broad gauge railway. Various special events take place throughout the year. For more information, visit www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

The Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary

Situated in the nearby village of Brightwell-cum-Sotwell is an independent charity dedicated to the welfare of mistreated and neglected donkeys. Visitors are welcomed throughout the year. Visit www.donkeyrescue.co.uk.

Basildon Park

Owned by the National Trust, this 18th century mansion was used to accommodate soldiers during both world wars and was rescued and restored by the late Lord and Lady Iliffe. Basildon Park is otherwise known as Grantham House in the popular TV series Downton Abbey. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/basildon-park

Local walks

For those who enjoy walking, Wallingford is one stop along the Thames Path which runs for 185 miles

from its source to the sea. Benson Lock is a pleasant summer’s day walk away. Many places along the path are served by regular buses from Wallingford which enable you to plan as long or short a walk as time permits. You may wish to travel to Moulsford and walk on the Wessex Downs, or go on to Goring with its stunning views from the Berkshire side and visit the variety of village shops and teashops. It is said that the river bank between Streatley and Pangbourne provided the inspiration for Kenneth Graham’s Wind in the Willows.

Cycling

Catering for a variety of needs and abilities, there are cycle trails offering rides of varying lengths in the countryside, using bridleways and quieter roads suitable for bicycles. Free leaflets are available to pick up from a number of information points around the town and surrounding area, including the Wallingford Town Information Centre and several local hotels.

Surrounding villages

Crowmarsh Gifford stands across the River Thames from Wallingford where access to the Riverside Park is from the eastern end of the bridge. The church was originally built in 1122 as the chapel of a

leper colony that was looked after by monks from Wallingford Priory.

Dorchester stands just off the road between Wallingford and Oxford and close to the confluence of the rivers Thames and Thame. In Saxon times it was the seat of a bishopric that stretched north as far as Lincolnshire. The church of the great abbey, which dates from the late 12th century, still remains.

The attractive village of Ewelme, some 3 miles from Wallingford, has medieval origins that are still visible in the school. The almshouses and the 15th century church were restored by Geoffrey Chaucer’s granddaughter Alice. The ancient watercress beds at Ewelme have recently been restored and teas are offered in the school on most Sundays in the summer season.

A few miles away, set in the Chilterns at Stoke Row, is the Maharajah’s Well which was built in 1864 as a gift from the Maharajah of Benares in India to his friend Mr E A Reade of Ipsden. The cast iron cover and elephant on the well head were cast by Wilder’s in Wallingford.

For more information visit the Town Information Centre or go to www.wallingford.co.uk

Nearby places to visit

34 35

CASTLECAMPSITE

RIVERSIDEPARK

CAMPSITE

ST. PETERS

ST. LEONARDS

ST. MARYS

National Traveline: 0870 608 2608

How to get here by public transport:

T: 01491 837 988E: office@thames-travel.co.ukW: www.thames-travel.co.uk

Cholsey and Wallingford Railway Preservation Society, 24 hour information: 01491 835067 - www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com

Corn Exchange Cinema & Theatre: 01491 825000 - www.cornexchange.org.uk

Didcot Railway Centre: 01235 817200 - www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

Dorchester Abbey: www.dorchester-abbey.org.uk

Beale Wildlife Park and Gardens 0844 826 1761 - www.bealepark.co.uk

Hadden Hill Golf Club: 01235 510410 - www.haddenhillgolf.co.uk

Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary: 01491 833938 - www.donkeyrescue.org.uk

Earth Trust: 01865 407792 - www.earthtrust.org

Nuffield Place: 01491 641224 - www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Pendon Museum: 01865 407365 - www.pendonmuseum.com

Ridgeway National Trail & The Thames Path: 01865 810224 - www.nationaltrail.co.uk

Springs Golf Club: 01491 827300 - www.thespringsgc.co.uk

Wallingford Museum: 01491 835065 - www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

Wallingford Rowing Club: www.wallingford.rowing.org.uk

Wallingford Sports Park: 01491 835044 - www.wallingfordsportspark.co.uk

Accommodation in and around Wallingford Website information & Map

Hotels:

The George Hotel (Hotel 3 Star) High Street, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 OBSTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 836665

The Shillingford Bridge HotelShillingford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8LZTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 858567

The White Hart Nettlebed (Hotel 3 Star) Nettlebed, Oxfordshire, RG9 5DDTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 641245

The White Hart Hotel (Hotel 3 Star) 26 High Street, Dorchester on Thames, Oxfordshire, OX10 7HN Telephone: +44 (0) 1865 340074

The George Hotel (Hotel 3 Star) High Street, Dorchester on Thames, Oxfordshire, OX10 7HHTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 340404

Bed & Breakfasts:

Little Gables B & B (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star) 166 Crowmarsh Hill, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8BGTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 837834

Mays Farm (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond) Ewelme, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6QF Telephone: +44 (0) 1491 641294

Wittas Ham Cottage (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond) High Street, Long Wittenham, Oxfordshire, OX14 4QH Telephone: +44 (0) 1865 407686

Huntington House (Bed and Breakfast 3 Star) 18 Wood Street, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 0AX Telephone: +44 (0) 1491 839201

Fyfield Manor - (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star) Benson, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6HATelephone: +44 (0) 1491 835184

Marsh House (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star) 7 Court Drive, Shillingford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7ERTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 858496

Fords Farm - Silver Award (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star) Ewelme, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6HU Telephone: +44 (0) 1491 839272

Alouette (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star) 2 Caldicott Close, Shillingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7HF Telephone: +44 (0) 1865 858600

The Grange (Bed and Breakfast 3 Star) The Grange, Long Wittenham, Oxfordshire, OX14 4QHTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 407808

Hill Farm (Bed and Breakfast 3 Star) Newington, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7ALTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 891173

Stag Hall (Bed and Breakfast 3 diamond) Stoke Row Road, Kingwood, Oxfordshire, RG9 5NX Telephone: +44 (0) 1491 680338

Perch and Pike (Inn 4 Star) The Street, South Stoke, Oxfordshire, RG8 0JS Telephone: +44 (0) 1491 872415

The Kingsfisher Inn (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond) 27 Henley Road, Shillingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7EL Telephone: +44 (0) 1865 858595

Camping & Caravan Park

Bridge Villa The St, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 8HBTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 836860

Bridge Villa is a picturesque, family run Camping and Touring Caravan Park in Oxfordshire, beside the River Thames within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Wallingford Town Council cannot accept responsibility for the quality of the above accommodation.

BRIDGE VILLACAMP SITE

36

Your wedding day is one of the most important days

in your life and Wallingford Town Hall provides the ideal

setting to make it a day to remember.

Situated in the centre of the town, and within easy

reach of the main car parks, it is a timber-frame

building that was constructed in 1670. The two

public rooms are on the first floor and the main

room has good views over the Market Place. Access

is via an external stone staircase; however, a stairlift

is available on an internal staircase for people with

mobility difficulties.

The main room gives an all-pervading sense of the

history of the town. On the walls are boards listing

all mayors since 1231 and portraits of major town

benefactors look down upon the ceremony. This

room can comfortably accommodate up to 60 guests.

For more intimate ceremonies the smaller Committee Room has the perfect ambience for up to 20 guests. This room has more portraits, and also has a display cabinet containing the Town Plate including the mace that is dated 1650 and is said to have been copied for the mace of the House of Commons.

The décor of both rooms has been carefully designed to be in keeping with the period of the building and to provide a suitable backdrop for the all-important photographs.

Receptions, Special Occasions,Conferences & ExhibitionsAre you looking for that distinctive location for a reception or dinner party, conference, exhibition or other special occasion?

The Town Hall could be the ideal venue...

For further information, fees and booking options please contact:Wallingford Town Council, 9 St. Martin’s St., Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 0AL

Tel: 01491 835373 Web: www.wallingford.co.uk

With thanks to Dee Cripps, Kevin Harvey, Mark Phillips and Christian Sinkinson for the use of various photographs in this brochure.

The Centre of AttractionWeddings at Wallingford Town Hall