abingdon on thames boat trips

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Getting to Abingdon-on-Thames by boat

The River Thames is the longest river in England and runs from the Cotswolds to London – 210 miles (340 km) of glorious riverside scenery running through areas of outstanding beauty.

For more information on mooring in Abingdon please see the Vale of White Horse District Council website here

Abingdon offers day boat hire, ranging from self-driven small electric and motor boats to rowing boats.  These can  be hired from the Abingdon Boat Centre .

Boat Day Trips

Salters Steamers provide day trips from Abingdon to Oxford, 7-days a week between late May and the September Heritage Open Weekend.  They also provide other boat trips along the Thames.

A Wallingford-Abingdon return trip operates in mid-July and August.  Please check when travelling for a boat excursion as river conditions can vary and Environment Agency locks, speed of water, current, and the height of the river in relation to bridges can affect all riverside towns and villages.

Sea Ferries

Abingdon is within two to three hours by car from many sea ports including:

all of which are served by major road links to Abingdon.   www.traveline.info

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You are here: Things To Do > Abingdon Boat Centre Ltd

Abingdon Boat Centre Ltd

Type: boat trip.

Tel: +44 (0)1235 521125

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Tripadvisor, map & directions.

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Road Directions

Abingdon is situated on the West Bank of the River Thames some 7 miles downstream of Oxford. The A34 lies just a couple of miles north of the town centre and this is connected via the A415 and A4183. Abingdon Boat Centre lies directly off the A415 on the south side of the town opposite the ’Nags Head’ Public House on Abingdon Bridge. Car parking is available but spaces are limited.

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Abingdon-on-Thames

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

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 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.

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 .

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Abingdon, book a room at The Crown & Thistle . With a history dating back to 1605, this Grade II listed coaching inn comprises three individual buildings clustered around a cobbled courtyard, framed by 200-year-old wisteria. The modern Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon Oxford Hotel is also a great accommodation option, with a convenient location just off the A34 and close to Oxford.

Abingdon Abbey Buildings

The remains of the great Abbey of Abingdon, consisting of atmospheric medieval buildings, are the oldest buildings in the town. The Abbey was the 6 th richest in England and one of the first to be demolished in the Reformation in 1538. The remaining range was saved in 1944 by the Friends of Abingdon who maintain them; they are now a Scheduled Monument and architecturally Grade 1 Listed.

How to Get Here

Bus from oxford:.

X3 – Oxford to Abingdon

X2 – Oxford to Didcot via Abingdon

City13/X13 – John Radcliffe Hospital to Abingdon via Oxford

City35 – Oxford to Abingdon

City4 – Oxford to Abingdon

31 – Oxford to Wantage via Abingdon

Salter’s Steamers is a family run firm that has been providing boat trips in Oxford since 1858. Their boat trips can transport visitors from Oxford to Abingdon.

Abingdon is on the Sustrans national cycle route, with both Radley and Culham railway stations within easy reach.

Where is Abingdon-on-Thames?

How to get to abingdon-on-thames.

Royal Cars is Oxford's largest taxi company offering all types of work, from local runs to airport tranfers to long-distance pickups and drop offs, weddings and occasionally have crossed the channel.

City4: Oxford to Abingdon

Bus service 4 connects Oxford with Abingdon, via Botley, Cumnor and Wootton.

City35: Oxford to Abingdon

Service 35 connects Oxford to Abingdon, via Kennington and Radley,

City13 & X13: John Radcliffe Hospital to Abingdon via Oxford

The City13 and the X13 services links the JR Hospital with Abingdon via Oxford and Redbridge Park&Ride.

Things to do in Abingdon-on-Thames

Abingdon Visitor Information Centre

Salter's Steamers Boat Trips

Abingdon County Hall Museum

Didcot Railway Centre

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Lovely afternoon cruise - Oxford to... - Salter's Steamers

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A wonderful way to spend 40 minutes on the Thames with the very knowledgable Brian, who entertained... read more

Three of us went on the small boat escorted by Brian who was excellent. Informative and... read more

Lovely afternoon cruise - Oxford to Abingdon

Family river cruise. Left Folly Bridge 2.30 for a 4 hour cruise to Abingdon and back. Really nice scenery all the way and saw lots of wildlife on the riverbanks. Relaxing way to spend an afternoon. The helpful staff made a pot of tea on each part of the journey and pointed out a kingfisher and some herons. Most enjoyable trip.

A really fun afternoon, take a boat out for a couple of hours and row around the themes. Good idea take a picnic....

No real infomation given on route, they drove at great speed nearly taking out a few small boaters attempting an almost hand break turn at the iffley lock then sped back again! Learnt very little, but river is very pretty, credit for that but not to salters. Cowboys.

Tried to book the Reading to Henley trip through the Oxford office via email, giving the day and date of our intended journey. Received a reply stating that you cannot book in advance and that all we needed to do was turn up and get on. Fine. Got to the landing stage in Reading only to be told that the boat was full owing to a block booking for 80 people. If your traveling any distance to take this trip then beware. Perhaps this company are only interested in corportate or block bookings.

We took the last boat trip of the day on a Saturday evening, maybe it was the time of day but the experience was not what we had been expecting. With our group included there were 10 people taking the trip so we were put into the smaller of the three boats which was fine apart from it clearly hadn't been cleared up around the bar area from earlier in the day. The trip was due to start at 5.30pm but we were left sitting in the boat with no explaination until nearly 6pm at which point a guy eventually turned up eating a plate of cake, mumbled an apology then reversed the boat only to narrowly miss a couple punting behind us. There was no commentary at all, even pointing out the boat club houses and some brief history of the area would have been something, but judging from the conversation the driver of boat was having on his mobile phone he wasn't in any state to do this after just coming from the pub and confessing he had one too many! The trip was meant to last an hour and we were back within 40 mins. There are better and probably safer boat trips in Oxford to take.

Salters Steamers provide nice boat trips down the river Thames and they were the right length - not too long as to get bored. Thoroughly reccomended.

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are happy to address any questions and all of the information can be found on our website. Contact details are: Salter’s Steamers Ltd Folly Bridge Oxford OX1 4LA Tel: (01865) 243421 Fax: (01865) 248185 E-Mail: [email protected] or visit our website at www.salterssteamers.co.uk

TOP 18 Things to see in Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

Welcome to Abingdon-on-Thames! This little gem in the heart of Oxfordshire is one of England’s most picturesque spots. There’s no shortage of things to do in Abingdon, with historic buildings, stunning river walks, and so much more!

Known for its unique market towns, the South of England is a treasure trove of delightful places to explore. And nestled among them is Abingdon, a perfect example of Oxfordshire’s charm . Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a leisurely day out, this charming town has something for you.

Thinking of a day trip from London or Oxford? Abingdon is your answer! Easy to reach and brimming with attractions, it’s a great place to spend a weekend . If you’re ever wondering what to do in Abingdon? you’ll quickly find this quaint town has an answer for every curiosity.

Just a short hop from Oxford, this town is sometimes mistaken for Abington on Thames due to its close proximity. But make no mistake – Abingdon has its own unique character and a wealth of things to explore.

This is a town that’s steeped in history and culture. Whether you’re local or visiting from afar, you’ll soon discover why Abingdon has become such a popular destination. So, why wait? Your next adventure in Abingdon, England awaits! Dive in, explore, and let this town’s charm captivate you.

Where is Abingdon-on-Thames?

Part of Oxfordshire in the South East of England , Abingdon-on-Thames (commonly shortened to “Abingdon”) is located to the south of Oxford, just off of the A34.

Abingdon Oxfordshire – car hire

Check out our guide to the  best car hire company in the UK  or simply explore the options directly on  discovercars.com  if you need a car to explore Oxfordshire.

What is Abingdon famous for?

Now, we want you to know that we’re being completely serious here. Abingdon is most famously known for two things: Bun-Throwing and the election of their Mock Mayor of Ock Street.

The Bun-Throwing ceremony is a 400-odd year-old tradition which takes place every time there is a special event to celebrate. For example, the most recent Bun-Throwing ceremony was in 2018 and took place to commemorate the year that World War I ended.

Other Bun-Throwing celebrations have included the coronation of several Royal Family members, a few jubilees, the year of the Millennium, and Her Majesty’s 90 th Birthday.

Buns are baked specially for this ceremony, where around 4000 currant buns are thrown at the gathered crowd by the town’s Councillors (in their full ceremonial robes, no less!).

As for the Mock Mayor election, well, that’s been going on for a number of years. The election takes place on whichever Saturday is closest to the midsummer solstice, which has suggested to many that the election has some very old roots, indeed.

Though the elected Mock Mayor has no real power, the celebration bursts through the streets of Abingdon with music, Morris dancers, and more.

Is Abingdon the oldest town in England?

Although Abingdon-on-Thames claims to be the oldest town in England, thanks to having proof of the town developing on its site for thousands of years, the oldest confirmed town is actually somewhere else.

In 2014, Amesbury in Wiltshire was confirmed as the oldest settlement in the UK. If you’re struggling to put a place to the name, Amesbury is where you’d go to visit the illustrious and mystical Stonehenge. Experts have found that this area has been occupied since 8820BCE.

How to get to Abingdon-on-Thames?

Let’s start with getting to Abingdon from Oxford. Going via the A34, it’s just 13 minutes from Oxford to Abingdon by car. However, if you aren’t travelling by car, you’ll need to hop on a bus at Westgate and ride for between 41 and 45 minutes.

From London, your journey will become a little longer. It’s around 1 hour and 22 minutes when travelling by car via the M40. For public transport, you’ll want to take a train from Paddington Station to Didcot Parkway, and then a bus from Parkway Station to Abingdon. This should take no more than 1 hour and 45 minutes.

When travelling from other places in the UK, it’s always easier to get to a major train station city like London and go from there. You might find travelling via London a bit cheaper, too.

Abingdon on Thames postcode

The postcode for Abingdon-on-Thames is OX14.

Accommodation in Abingdon on Thames

Abingdon-on-Thames has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few examples:

• The Crown and Thistle: The Crown and Thistle is a historic coaching inn that offers stylish and comfortable accommodation. The rooms are individually decorated and feature period features, such as exposed beams and fireplaces. The inn also has a restaurant and bar that serves a range of local and seasonal dishes.
• Dog House Hotel: The Dog House Hotel is a family-run hotel that offers comfortable and affordable accommodation. The rooms are modern and well-appointed, and the hotel has a bar and restaurant that serves a range of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
• Oxford Abingdon Hotel: The Oxford Abingdon Hotel is a modern hotel located on the outskirts of Abingdon. The hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms, as well as a restaurant and bar that serves a range of international dishes.
• The Upper Reaches Hotel: The Upper Reaches Hotel is a charming hotel located on the banks of the River Thames. The hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms, as well as a restaurant and bar that serves a range of classic and contemporary dishes.

These are just a few examples of the accommodation options available in Abingdon-on-Thames. Whether you’re looking for a historic inn, a modern hotel, or a charming riverside location, you’re sure to find a place to stay that suits your needs.

Things to do in Abingdon-on-Thames

From pubs to theatres, historical walks to shopping-filled afternoons, there’s more to do in Abingdon than meets the eye.

1. The Nag’s Head

Looking for places to visit in Abingdon-on-Thames? The Nag’s Head is a charming establishment that can be found on The Bridge in Abingdon. The business describes themselves as a “little piece of paradise” and we couldn’t agree more. The Nag’s Head runs as a restaurant and a pub, and guests can also benefit from their riverside garden.

Why not try The Nag’s Head’s Grazing Board for a great brunch with your family or friends? The board comes with olives, houmous, and flatbread, but has a huge range of other options that you can add on for a small cost.

2. Almshouses in Abingdon-on-Thames

What to see in Abingdon-on-Thames? In older times, almshouses were used by various religious orders to feed and shelter the poor. This is a practice that can be dated all the way back to the medieval period. Today’s existing almshouses are usually run by various independent charities, providing a safe and secure place for low-income individuals to stay when they have nowhere else to go. They aren’t quite homeless shelters, per se, more low-cost housing solutions.

I. Brick Alley

The almshouse that faces St. Helen’s churchyard is that which is called the Brick Alley Almshouses. This almshouse has history that dates back to the early 15 th century, when Geoffrey Barbour left money for an almshouse to be built in the area.

The current almshouse that stands at Brick Alley is not the original one. It was rebuilt and completed back in 1720. Today, it is a Grade I listed building.

II. Long Alley

Like Brick Alley, Long Alley Almshouse was used as a hospital. It was constructed just a couple of decades after Brick Alley, once a new charter gave the townsfolk of Abingdon the right to set an almshouse up for the sick.

The central hall is open for viewings on Heritage Days.

III. Twitty’s

Twitty’s Almshouses have a different story to the other two famous almshouses in Abingdon. When Charles Twitty, a senior official who worked in the Exchequer, passed away, he left funds to build the Twitty’s almshouses.

Unlike Brick Alley and Long Alley, Twitty’s is a Grade II listed building. It isn’t as old as the other almshouses, but it still holds significant history in Abingdon.

3. East St Helen Street

Top Abingdon-on-Thames sightseeing? Noted as one of the earliest streets in Abingdon, East St Helen Street is full of houses with medieval cellars, with many properties dating back to the 13 th to 15 th centuries. The beautiful thing about this street is that it’s a timeline of history. Many of the houses have been dated back to different decades in different centuries, with several holding various pieces from years gone by.

It’s a walk through time.

4. Abbey Gatehouse

Best Abingdon-on-Thames places to visit? Spanning across the road which was used as the entrance to the old Abbey, Abbey Gatehouse was built back in the 15 th century. The gatehouse has been in constant use for a huge number of years and remains a strong piece of architecture in Abingdon.

5. Abingdon Abbey

Whats on Abingdon Oxfordshire? Once a monastery that was known as St Mary’s Abbey, Abingdon Abbey was founded in the late 7 th century – or that’s the best guess that historians have. During the time of Henry VIII, the Abbey had the sixth largest income of the country and was one of the greatest landowners in Berkshire.

Today, only two groups of the Abbey’s buildings remain. One, which contains the Gateway, St Nicholas’ Church, and some of the Guildhall. And the other, which has the Long Gallery, the Checker, and the Unicorn Theatre (as it’s now known).

6. Abingdon main square

Top things to do in Abingdon Oxfordshire? The main square of Abingdon, also known as Market Square and Market Place, can be easily located in the centre of the town, right where all of the action is. At Market Place, you’ll be able to find a range of cafés, various markets, and more.

Abingdon’s main square is right next to the high street, too, which makes it the perfect location for a shopping trip.

7. Abbey Meadow

What is there to do in Abingdon-on-Thames? Abbey Meadow links directly onto Abbey Gardens, the whole area is extremely charming. Along with the various flower displays scattered across the gardens, Victoria’s statue, the ruins, and the nearby church, this area is a bit of a tourist hotspot.

For a relaxing afternoon, take a moment to venture down one of the paths or the 2.5-mile circular walk.

8. Abingdon County Hall Museum

Where to go in Abingdon-on-Thames Oxfordshire? An establishment that has long recorded the history of Abingdon for the public to view. Abingdon Country Hall Museum is known for making the town’s historical information as accessible as possible, in the hopes that they can educate and excite their visitors.

You can enjoy a virtual tour of the museum online, as well, which could be helpful in planning your visit and figuring out what parts of the museum you want to see.

9. St Helen’s Church

Where to go in Abingdon Oxfordshire ? St Helen’s Church has been Abingdon’s principal church since its construction. There has never been a time when this architectural wonder hasn’t been at the forefront of all churches in the town. St Helen’s was likely founded around the 7 th or 8 th century, although the first mention of it in written record doesn’t appear until the 10 th century.

Over the many, many years that this church has stood in Abingdon, it has undergone rebuilding, extensions, and renovation. The last major extension has in the 16 th century, which included the area of the outer south side of the church.

10. St Helen’s Wharf

Best Abingdon-on-Thames day out? Directly next to St Helen’s Church, St Helen’s Wharf overlooks the Thames and is a great area to watch boats, feed ducks, or just sit down for a relaxing afternoon. There’s a lot of trading history at the Wharf, and there’s also the Gardens, which are right by the Wharf and are gorgeous in the warmer months.

11. Abingdon flood level sign 15 Nov 1894

Must see places in Abingdon-on-Thames town? There’s a fair bit of history in this little tourist spot in Abingdon. Right by the River Thames, you’ll be able to spot at old flood level sign that was placed on the 15 th of November 1894 – or that’s what the sign tells us, anyway.

These signs were vital during times of flooding, giving the townspeople and authorities more of a warning about the state of potential floods in the area.

12. Cycling in Abingdon

What to do in Abingdon-on-Thames? Cycling enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to ride down in Abingdon. Which one you decide to try depends on how far you want to go and how long you’re planning on cycling for.

One of the longer cycling routes is the Wallingford – Abingdon loop, which is over 30 miles and takes almost three hours to complete. Although it’s lengthy and takes some time, the route is mostly paved areas and suitable for all cyclists.

For a shorter route that stays in Abingdon, try the Abingdon Bridge loop. It’s just 6.37 miles and take a little over half an hour.

13. The Old Anchor Inn

Best places to see in Abingdon-on-Thames? Dating back to the 19 th century, The Old Anchor Inn can be found on St Helen’s Wharf in Abingdon. It’s a cosy, riverside pub that serves lunch and dinner, and it has a kid’s menu! Their main dishes include some great pub dishes, such as steak and chips, beer battered fish and chips, burgers, and more.

14. Unicorn Theatre

What’s in Abingdon-on-Thames? With tickets to showings costing as little as £8, the Unicorn Theatre has been a family theatre for around 70 years. You can find it on Checker Walk, just a short walk from St Helen’s Wharf and the Thames.

15. Thames Path

Nice places to visit in Oxfordshire? The Thames Path is a walking route in Abingdon that starts in the town and runs all the way to the village of Sandford-on-Thames. There are several miles of countryside on this route, and you’ll also cross near the railway bridge – you might get lucky and be in the area the same time a train is passing through!

16. Abingdon Bridge

Crossing the River Thames, Abingdon Bridge allows traffic to go from Abingdon to Dorchester with ease. The bridge, itself, is listed as Grade II, and is actually two bridges that are linked together by Nag’s Head Island.

17. St Nicolas’ Church

Another of Abingdon’s wonderous churches, St Nicolas’ Church can be found in Abingdon’s Market Place. St Nicolas’ Church became a parish church back in the late 14 th century, though it was built around the late 12 th century. 

18. Boat trips on the Thames

This is the perfect activity for anyone visiting Abingdon that wants to get out on the river. There’s a company called Salter’s Steamers that offer a river cruise from Oxford to Abingdon, starting at Oxford’s Folly Bridge, and ending at Abingdon Bridge.

Abingdon on Thames town history

Abingdon-on-Thames is a historic market town located in the county of Oxfordshire in the south of England. The town has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over a thousand years.

The earliest recorded history of Abingdon dates back to the 7th century, when a Saxon abbey was founded on the site of the present-day town. The abbey was an important center of learning and culture, and it played a key role in the development of the town.

In the Middle Ages, Abingdon became a thriving market town, thanks to its location on the River Thames and its proximity to London. The town was also known for its wool trade, and many of its buildings date back to this period.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Abingdon played an important role in the English Civil War. The town was a Royalist stronghold, and it was the site of several key battles and skirmishes. After the war, the town became a center of commerce and industry, and it continued to grow and prosper throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.

Today, Abingdon is a vibrant and bustling town with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to a wide range of historic buildings, including the Grade I-listed St. Helen’s Church, the 17th-century County Hall, and the medieval Abingdon Bridge. The town also has a thriving arts scene, with a number of galleries, museums, and theaters, as well as a popular annual arts festival.

Pubs in Abingdon on Thames

There are several pubs in Abingdon-on-Thames, offering a range of beers, wines, and spirits, as well as food and live entertainment. Here are a few popular options:

• The Kings Head and Bell: This historic pub dates back to the 14th century and has a cozy, traditional atmosphere. It serves a range of real ales and classic pub food.
• The Brewery Tap: This modern pub is located in the heart of Abingdon and offers a wide selection of craft beers and ciders, as well as pub snacks and light meals.
• The Nag’s Head: This family-friendly pub has a large beer garden and a menu of classic British pub dishes, as well as live music and quiz nights.
• The Broad Face: This spacious pub has a large bar area and a separate dining room, serving a menu of classic British dishes and international cuisine.
• The Punch Bowl: This traditional pub has a warm, friendly atmosphere and a menu of classic pub food, as well as regular quiz and music nights.

These are just a few of the many pubs in Abingdon-on-Thames – there are plenty more to explore depending on your preferences and interests.

Abingdon on Thames tourist information

Abingdon-on-Thames is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Here is some tourist information to help you plan your visit:

• Historic attractions: Abingdon has a number of historic buildings and landmarks, including St. Helen’s Church, the County Hall, and the Abingdon Bridge. The Abingdon Museum is also worth a visit, with displays on the town’s history and culture.
• Outdoor activities: The River Thames runs through Abingdon, and there are many opportunities for boating, fishing, and river walks. The town also has several parks and nature reserves, including the beautiful Abbey Gardens.
• Arts and culture: Abingdon has a thriving arts scene, with several galleries and theaters, as well as the annual Abingdon Arts Festival. The town is also home to the Unicorn Theatre, which hosts a range of performances and events throughout the year.
• Shopping and dining: Abingdon has a wide range of shops, from independent boutiques to larger chain stores. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and pubs, serving everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.
• Festivals and events: Abingdon hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Abingdon Airshow, the Abingdon Food and Drink Festival, and the Abingdon Carnival.
• Location: Abingdon is located in the heart of Oxfordshire, just a short drive or bus ride from Oxford city center. The town is also easily accessible by train, with regular services from London and other major cities.

Abingdon on Thames coffee shops

There are several coffee shops in Abingdon-on-Thames that offer a range of hot and cold drinks, as well as light meals and snacks. Here are a few popular options:

• The Brew House: This coffee shop is located in the heart of Abingdon and offers a range of artisan coffees, teas, and hot chocolate, as well as cakes, sandwiches, and salads.
• Costa Coffee: This popular chain coffee shop is located in the town center and offers a range of hot and cold drinks, as well as sandwiches and cakes.
• The Old Anchor Coffee House: This independent coffee shop is located on the river Thames and has a lovely outdoor seating area. It serves a range of hot and cold drinks, as well as breakfast and light meals.
• Throwing Buns: This bakery and coffee shop is located in Abingdon’s Market Place and offers a range of artisan bread, cakes, and pastries, as well as coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.
• The Old Bookbinders Ale House: This historic pub also serves coffee, tea, and cakes during the day. It has a cozy, traditional atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

These are just a few of the many coffee shops in Abingdon-on-Thames – there are plenty more to explore depending on your preferences and interests.

Abingdon on Thames shops

Abingdon-on-Thames has a variety of shops that cater to different interests and needs. Here are a few popular options:

• Bury Street Antiques: This antiques shop offers a range of items, including furniture, ceramics, and jewelry. It’s located in a historic building and is a popular destination for antique collectors and enthusiasts.
• Mostly Books: This independent bookshop has a wide selection of books across different genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and local interest titles.
• Abingdon Market: The weekly Abingdon Market offers a range of local produce, as well as crafts, clothing, and other items.
• The Bookstore: This bookshop specializes in academic and non-fiction titles, and also offers a range of stationery and gifts.
• The Gifted Magpie: This gift shop offers a range of unique and quirky gifts, including homeware, jewelry, and accessories.

These are just a few examples of the many shops in Abingdon-on-Thames. There are also several supermarkets, clothing stores, and other types of shops throughout the town.

Places to visit near Abingdon-on-Thames:

• Dorchester-on-Thames : 7 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Wallingford : 11 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Goring on Thames : 17 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Henley-on-Thames : 22 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Burford : 22 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Hambleden : 25 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Turville : 26 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• West Wycombe : 27 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Sonning on Thames : 27 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Bibury : 31 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Marlow : 33 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Wendover Woods : 34 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Windsor : 36 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Burnham Beeches : 39 miles away from Abingdon on Thames
• Old Amersham : 41 miles away from Abingdon on Thames

Is it worth visiting Abingdon-on-Thames?

For those who are considering a quite day out near the countryside, who enjoy the history of old towns, religious architecture, and cycling or walking routes, Abingdon is a great place to visit.

It’s not a town that you would need to stay in for more than a day or two if you want to see everything, and it’d be a good idea to visit during the Abingdon Heritage Festival to get a little more excitement out of your trip.

You could also very easily combine your journey with Oxford by using the river cruise option and explore two towns at once!

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In the idyllic heart of Oxfordshire, Abingdon-on-Thames stands out as a destination that’s both rich in history and full of life. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the town promises a delightful mix of activities, making it an unbeatable choice for those looking for things to do in Abingdon.

A picturesque setting, enchanting river walks, and historical attractions are just the beginning of what Abingdon, UK offers. It’s a haven for culture and nature lovers alike, and the perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a day trip from bustling cities like London or Oxford.

Frequently confused with Abington on Thames, Abingdon holds its own with a unique character that draws visitors from near and far. It’s no wonder that when people ask, what to do in Abingdon? , there’s never a shortage of answers.

Not just a place to visit, but a place to explore and cherish – Abingdon is known for its vibrant market town atmosphere, with various places to visit in Abingdon that both locals and tourists love. It’s a location that satisfies curiosity, encourages adventure, and promises memorable experiences.

To sum it up, Abingdon Oxfordshire delivers a multitude of benefits for those in search of English charm and diversity. Your journey into the enchanting Abingdon, England will indeed be a remarkable one, with each visit providing a new facet of this captivating town to explore. We hope this guide has given you a glimpse into the magic that awaits in Abingdon. Now, it’s time for you to experience it firsthand. Enjoy your visit!

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You are here: Towns > Abingdon

Type: Towns & Villages

Tel: +44 (0)1235 522711

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The Vale of White Horse is a peaceful and tranquil place that is also a global hot-spot for science and innovation.  It has great transport links and is only 60 miles from London.    The Vale makes an ideal base for exploring Oxfordshire and the countryside provides great opportunities for walking, cycling and horseriding.    Located six miles south-west of Oxford, the former county town of Berkshire had a slight name change in 2012 to become Abingdon-on-Thames. Best known for MG Car manufacturing, Abingdon is recognised for special architectural merit with some thirty-four 17th century buildings while twenty-two are even older.   Evidence exists of an early Bronze Age settlement which, at over 6,000 years old, makes Abingdon the oldest continuously occupied town in Britain. An Abbey was established in the 7thcentury which was visited by William the Conqueror and his son, the future Henry I, was educated here. By the time of Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries, Abingdon Abbey was the sixth richest in Britain. Parts of the building remain and play an active part in community events.   When the Wilts and Berks Canal opened, Abingdon became a key link between major industrial centres such as Bristol, London, Birmingham and the Black Country. Although abandoned in 1906, a voluntary trust is now working to restore and re-open it. The original Abingdon railway branch line is now a popular cyclepath. Road bridges crossing the rivers’ Thames and Ock are listed as ancient monuments. Abingdon Bridge dates from 1416 and is technically two bridges, linked by Nags Head Island.   The town was granted a market charter in the 13th Century and there is a market each Monday and Farmers' Market on the third Monday in the month. There are riverside parks and gardens, space for angling and leisure facilities for tennis, swimming and boating. Abingdon-on-Thames was one of the first towns to offer widespread free wi-fi access.   Six things to do in Abingdon:

• Walk along the Thames Path National Trail at Abingdon and view historic Abingdon and visit Abingdon Lock. Watch pleasure boats passing through Abingdon Lock – the oldest surviving lock chamber in the UK, and possibly Europe.
• In the Summer, take a cruise on the River Thames with Salters Steamers . A trip to Culham Lock takes 30 minutes and you can either walk back (just over 2 miles) or catch the bus (No. 33 runs hourly). Check the website for scheduled cruises.
• Visit County Hall Museum – one of Abingdon’s oldest and most beautiful buildings re-opening after extensive refurbishment in summer 2012. Exhibits include the last MG manufactured at Abingdon.
• Admire St Helen's Church – with five aisles, England’s second widest church is wider than it is long and has beautiful 14th century painted ceilings.
• Explore the Abbey Buildings - remains of the medieval abbey destroyed by Henry VIII include the 13th century Checker, the Long Gallery and Undercroft.
• Book a visit to the medieval Merchant house –16th century wall paintings, gallery windows, fireplaces and walled garden restored by the Oxford Preservation Trust.  

Walk along the Thames Path National Trail at Abingdon and view historic Abingdon and visit Abingdon Lock .

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Short Trips

Salter’s Steamers operate a variety of shorter round trips from the places listed below.

Please note that some of the trips only run on particular days and are all subject to weather conditions and boat availability – please check with our Oxford office on 01865 243421.

Although the official season runs from late May to late September we will also run short trips from select locations before and after these dates if the weather is particularly good.

40 Minute return trips daily From April  (to Iffley Lock) 11:00, 12:00, 13:00,14:00, 15:00, 16:00 & 17:00.

These Cruises will be running during April, through to the end of September – Subject to Weather

Adult £13.50 – Child £8.50 – Children under 3 go free

Alice in Wonderland Cruise

2.5 hour round trip taking in views of Iffley Lock and Port Meadow.

Take in sights of Salters River Experience Cruise, we then proceed up river passing through Osney Lock, into Port Meadow admiring its stunning open landscape and abundance of wildlife.

Departing Folly Bridge at 12:00

Adults £28.00 – Children £19.00 – Children under 3 go free

Lunchtime Picnic Cruise

2.5 Hour round trip taking in views of Iffley Lock and Port Meadow including gourmet picnic lunch.

Take in sights of Salters River Experience Cruise, we then proceed up river passing through Osney Lock, into Port Meadow admiring its stunning open landscape and abundance of wildlife, whilst enjoying your freshly prepared lunch.

Departing Folly Bridge at 12:00.

Adults £42.00 – Children £33.00 – Children under 3 go free

40 minute return (down to Temple lock) daily in season hourly from 11:00am to 17:00pm.

This service may continue on Weekends out of season depending on Weather. Please contact 01865 243421.

Adult £11.00 – Child £7.50 – Children under 3 go free.

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NAGS HEAD ISLAND

The main area of the island is below the bridge with the main channel on the right bank. Below the bridge contains a boat hiring company and a cafe: Annie's at the Boathouse. Above the bridge is the Nags Head Public House.

ANNIE'S AT THE BOATHOUSE

Website (10am - 4pm) Breakfasts, lunches and teas Parking: Hales Meadow Car Park and Rye Farm Car Park* are on Culham Road, Abingdon OX14 3NN which is located just off Bridge Street, south of the River Thames. You can park there and walk back over the bridge to the tea room. These car parks are open 24 hours a day and chargeable seven days a week (including Bank Holidays) from 8am until 6pm. A valid ticket must be displayed at all times during the charging period - including the free two hours. Disabled badge holders can park free of charge (unlimited time limit), providing they display their badge correctly. If all disabled bays are full then a standard bay may be used. *There is a height restriction on Rye Farm Car Park of 2m (6'6")

Abingdon Boat Centre, Salters

Boat Centre website . Chandlery, hire and moorings.

Abingdon Bridge Marine Ltd is a family firm that is a wholly owned subsidiary of Salter Brothers Ltd who has provided first-class hospitality on the Royal River Thames for over 150 years (est. 1858). We offer a variety of hugely popular boat trips through some of the most beautiful scenery in England. During the summer our scheduled trips operate from Abingdon on the Upper-Thames. We also hire out rowing boats, 6 and 8 capacity diesel day-boats which can be hired hourly or up to a full day between 10am and 6pm. In addition we will be operating the Diesel and Pump out Facilities to be available daily in season. We also have Moorings available on the Island. Opening times: In season, Easter until the end of September - 7 days a week from 10am until 6pm. During October we're open 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays) from 9am until 5pm. November to Easter we're only open on Monday & Friday from 9am until 5pm.

Nags Head on the Bridge Island

Nags Head Island, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 3HX. 01235-524516 website 1906:  G.E Mitton -

The bridge ... is very long, and rests partly on an island. Standing on this, the Nag's Head Inn projects from one side of the bridge, and from it stretches out a small garden, with several orchard trees. The red tiles and creamy tint of the hotel walls show well in contrast with the grey stone of the bridge, and when the hotel is seen from the river above the bridge, with the tall spire of St. Helen's Church rising behind it, it is worth noticing.

1891: The Stream of Pleasure, Joseph & Elizabeth Robins Pennell -

[Below Abingdon Lock, going downstream] the channel is narrow and, owing to the deep fall, the stream is swift. It carried us quickly on until, all at once, as we watched the growth of the spire and the lovely arrangement of the town on the quaint old bridge, we were startled by the shouts of men on both banks. We were sitting up to see what was the matter, when crash, we went broadside on, against a stone wall, just here jutting out into the river and dividing it suddenly into two rapid streams, which pass out of sight under the low arches of the bridge. It was well our boat was a broad-beamed family tub; this was the only thing that saved us. The men on the banks, who had been rushing about with boat-hooks and life-preservers, looked immensely surprised when, instead of diving into the water after us, all they had to do was to seize the boat and hold on hard, so as to keep it from rebounding with the blow. It was a ticklish business, and the worst of it was we had been swept up to the wrong pier, and had to trust ourselves again to the current, and come up with another bang at the raft of the Nag's Head Hotel, where the proprietor and a boy, armed with boat-hooks, anxiously awaited our violent arrival. As there is nothing about this strong current in the many guide books and maps and charts of the Thames, we could not have been prepared for what is unquestionably one of the few really dangerous places on the river. Even if we wished, we could not have thought of sleeping in our boat, when the proprietor of the "Nag's Head" seemed certain he had saved us from a watery grave, and literally dragged us into his inn. We had nothing to regret. We left the boat for another very old and rambling house, another good little dinner. Instead of being alone as at Sandford, men in flannels were in the coffee room, at the bar, and in the garden. Every time we looked out on the river from the inn windows or from the bridge, we saw a passing pleasure boat.

[ There is now no particular problem here. ]

The definitive guide to Royal Windsor UK.

French Brothers Boat Trips

French Brothers have been operating riverboats on the Thames since 1978. They have grown to become one of the largest passenger boat operators in the UK & now have a fleet of 13 large boats with capacities of up to 180 passengers.

French Brothers offer a huge range of public boat trips & special events along the Upper Thames. These include round trips as well as trips between riverside towns.

Trips are available from:

Windsor – Runnymede – Maidenhead – Staines – Chertsey – Hampton Court

Windsor Castle

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

The Windsor 40 minute trip is one of our most popular. Departing regularly from Windsor Promenade.

This is our most wheelchair friendly trip and really popular with young kids.

A great way to travel to Windsor by avoiding the traffic, returning back to Maidenhead in the afternoon.

This includes an option for a Cream Tea Hamper for advanced online bookings, which is very popular.

Arrive in Windsor by river in time for lunch with a peaceful cruise back in the afternoon.

Runnymede to Hampton Court Service, calling at Staines upon Thames, Chertsey Lock and Sunbury Lock.

www.frenchbrothers.co.uk

Tel:  01753 851900, email:   [email protected].

Oxford to Abingdon

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Distance : 10 miles Duration : 4 hours

Water walk : This lovely rural walk invites you to explore the city of Oxford before setting off for greener surroundings. Just a few miles downstream from Oxford you’re encouraged to take a short detour from Iffley Lock to visit the village’s fabulous Norman church. Continuing the walk downstream you pass through Sandford Lock, which boasts the largest fall of water from its weir and is a pretty impressive sight. Just beyond Abingdon Lock you reach Abingdon Bridge - the original bridge was built in 1422 with 14 arches, and the current structure still retains a medieval feel. The walk finishes in Abingdon, one of the most important historic towns on the River Thames, with a magnificent town hall and abbey founded as early as 675AD.

Refreshments: You will find several pubs dotted along this section of the Thames Path. Try the Isis Tavern, delightfully situated on the path just before Iffley Lock or the Kings Arms at Sandford Lock.

Train stations : Oxford has good train links. Abingdon does not have a train station but does have an excellent bus service where you can get a bus back to Oxford.

Boat trips : During the summer months you can walk in one direction and get a boat back. See Salters Steamers for details.

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