Wallingford

Wallingford is a small town on the western bank of the Thames in the county of South Oxfordshire. Half-timbered houses and brick fronts line the narrow streets around the central market square, and a church tower rises above the low rooftops.

After the Norman invasion a large fortress was built here, holding off attackers for centuries. During the English Civil War the stronghold was dismantled, leaving only earthworks and a few fragments of wall.

The river splits into several arms and forms narrow islands crossed by old stone bridges. On market days, traders fill the lanes while walkers follow the riverside paths to watch swans gliding past.

The main streets radiate from the market square in all directions, leading to small shops, cafés and pubs. A walk along the Thames gives access to meadows and boat moorings that can be used throughout the year.

An old railway branch connects the town to neighboring villages and is now run by railway enthusiasts using restored diesel and steam locomotives. The services operate mostly in spring and summer, crossing open farmland.

Location: South Oxfordshire

Shares border with: Crowmarsh, Brightwell-cum-Sotwell, Cholsey

Website: http://wallingfordtown.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.59829,-1.12514

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:46