Abingdon

The town of Abingdon was established beside the Thames in AD 675, and the oldest habited town in England.

During the middle ages Abingdon Abbey was considered one of the richest in the land. It was visited by many English monarchs, including Henry VIII. Sadly during the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538 many of the buildings were demolished . However, several important buildings remain, including the Bakehouse in Thames Street, Checker Hall (now the Unicorn Theatre), and the Long Gallery.

County Hall, was built in the market square was built in 1678. It houses the museum. Nowadays local council members congregate on special occasions and throw freshly baked buns to the crowds gathered in the square. (Hence the expression a 'bun fight'.) Close by, are the Guildhall buildings, which displays the Council artifacts and can be viewed in the part of the building which was the original John Royse School.

The famous MG cars were designed and built in Abingdon.  This area is now a Business Park.  You can visit the MG Car Club in Cemetery Road.

There are many delightful views and walks to be enjoyed, including a river trip to Oxford.  Abingdon is also ideally situated for touring the Cotswolds.