TheWallingford Experience

The WallingfordExperience2012/13EditionIncludes history of Wallingford,places to visitand shopping guide...

ContentsThe Town Information Centre 2Places of Interest in Wallingford 4Wallingford - an Ancient Borough 6Judge Blackstone 11Agatha Christie 12Remembering Wilding & Andrew 13Wallingford Museum 14Wallingford Rowing Club 15The River Thames 16Riverside Moorings 17A Unique Shopping Experience 18Cholsey & Wallingford Railway 27The Corn Exchange 27Nearby Places to Visit 28Accommodation 30Website Information & Map 31Weddings in the Town Hall 32Town Information CentreThe Information Centre is operated by theTown Council covering the local area -offering information on who to contactand where to go for what, directions,history and what’s on.Town Information Centre - Undercroft - Town Hall - Market PlaceT: 01491 826 972 E: wallingfordtic@btconnect.comThe Wallingford Experience is produced byWallingford Town CouncilEvery effort has been made to ensure that the contents and information containedin this brochure were correct at time of going to press.This is a Wallingford publication - Published by: Cllr Dee Cripps - Production by: NP Design & Print Ltd. 01491 824827

WELCOME TO WALLINGFORDI believe Wallingford has a greatdeal to offer the visitor and theresident. Visit the Town InformationCentre in the Undercroft of theTown Hall and pick up a leaflet andfollow one of the many mapsaround the town. There are lots ofplaces to see!Wallingford has a unique heritage,once boasting one of the mostimportant and largest castles inEngland. The Castle Meadows are steeped inhistory and have been awarded the GreenFlag for its natural beauty.We have strong ties with our neighbours RAFBenson and have worked very closely withthem throughout the years. They are helpingus with many of this year’s special eventssuch as The Olympic Torch Relay whichcomes through Wallingford in July. A few dayslater, to show our appreciation of all theArmed Forces, they will march through thetown into the Market Place to be greeted bythe Town Council in recognition of ourfeelings for them as neighbours, friends andFreeman of the town. This promises to be avery colourful, musical and emotional event.As you walk about our historic town I hopeyou get the feeling that Wallingford is alived in community, not just a vibrant shoppingarea. Many local families have lived-in or closeto its centre for generations and this issomething that we wish to promote and nurture.We are proud to be individual, special and valued,and not a town full of cloned high street outlets.Have a walk around our saxonKinecroft, take a book into thequiet Castle Gardens or sit by theriver and watch the swans orkingfishers.While enjoying the river you maycatch a glimpse of WallingfordRowing Club out training; manypast and present Olympians havetrained here.If you are more energetic have a swim in ourheated outdoor pool which is open from Mayto September, or play on the new waterfeature but mind you don’t get squirted!Midsomers Murders was partly filmed inWallingford and The Corn Exchange hasfeatured on several occasions. The SinodunPlayers also stage some very good plays andin January they produce their ownpantomime- always a complete sell-out.The BunkFest brings many visitors; the wholetown is invaded by people in the strangest ofcostumes, doing the oddest dances, but allhaving fun.A dedicated team of volunteers run our localmuseum. This year they have produced twonew exhibitions, one of the Diamond Jubileeand a show case of memorabilia from localOlympians- not to be missed.As you can tell I’m very proud of Wallingfordhaving lived here for the past forty years, andI would urge you to stay a while and enjoy itwith me.Throughout the year local organisations put on a variety of events,to find out more visit out Town Information Centre, or log ontowww.wallingford.co.uk3

Places of Interestin Wallingford4Wallingford is a small country market town onthe banks of the River Thames about 50 milesto the west of London. It is well connected byroad and local bus services to Oxford, Readingand Henley, and the nearby main line railwaystation at Cholsey. Wallingford is an ideal placein which to enjoy a days visit or to take a shortbreak to explore the surrounding countryside.The town centre is dominated by the TownHall, a timber-framed building constructed nearto the site of the Guild Hall in 1670. It is herethat the Town’s silver-gilt mace (made in 1650at a cost of £46 18s 3d) is kept, together withthe Town Plate and paintings. The open areaunderneath was once used for market stalls. Itnow houses the Town Information Centrewhich provides information about all of thelocal centres of interest and places to stay. TheCharter Market is still held in the Market Placeevery Friday, and a Farmers’ Market takesplace on the third Tuesday of each month.On the east side of the Market Place is theformer Corn Exchange (built in 1856) the roofof which is supported inside by iron beamscast by Wilder’s, a local foundry. The SinodunPlayers now own the building and provide avaried programme of amateur productions,professional touring companies and up-to-datefilms. Agatha Christie, a former president ofthe Sinodun Players, lived on the outskirts ofWallingford for 40 years and is buried nearbyin Cholsey churchyard.Local history is the theme of WallingfordMuseum which is housed in the medieval, oakbeamedFlint House in the High Street oppositethe Kinecroft. The Wallingford Story is anexciting ’Sight & Sound’ experience whichenables you to walk through time from theRomans and Saxons to the Civil War.The Regal Centre, a converted cinema near theMarket Place, is now home to many eventsincluding an annual Blues and Beer Festival andthe weekly Country Market (W.I.). Regularsporting activities also held here include tabletennis, keep fit, short mat bowls andbadminton.Many of Wallingford’s narrow lanes, and someof the wider streets, follow the alignment ofthe original Saxon roads. Leaflets showingroutes for Walking Tours of the Town areavailable from the Town Information Centreand Wallingford Museum. The routes arecarefully chosen to ensure that visitors get themost interest from their time here.In 2001 Wallingford Castle Meadows werebought by the South Oxfordshire DistrictCouncil. The site is managed for informal

ecreation and, although only a few fragmentsof the walls remain, the earthworks andmeadows have undergone a transformationinto a delightful area to walk around and enjoythe ecological and historical nature of the site.The Castle Gardens are owned by the TownCouncil and provide a colourful haven of peaceand quiet near to the town centre. They havewon numerous awards for their design andmaintenance. The gardens are accessed fromCastle Street at the back of the George Hotel.Wallingford was important historically becauseof its excellent ford, and today the samecrossing place has one of the finest bridges onthe River Thames. At 300m long it is only 5mshorter than the old London Bridge. The riverhas always brought particular delight whetherlooking towards the Chilterns or towards thetown from the Crowmarsh side. One of themore impressive landmarks is the spire of StPeter’s Church with its delicate open design.The church includes a Morris and Co. design inone of its windows, and the tomb of Sir WilliamBlackstone. The church is now home to aseries of concerts during the summer given byestablished professional musicians and risingstars from the Royal School of Music.Steam buffs must plan to visit the Cholsey andWallingford Railway which runs special steamand theme days from its station in HithercroftRoad Wallingford to the main line stationat Cholsey.The really energetic visitor should call in at theWallingford Sports Park in the south westcorner of the Town. This site is the centre forcricket, rugby, tennis, football, hockey, skittlesand squash. Or, if being on or in water is morein your line, then Wallingford offers an openairheated swimming pool by the bridge and atop class Rowing Club.To make your visit even more enjoyable,Wallingford provides a wide variety of placesto eat and drink and to suit all tastes. We offertraditional English meals and food from India,Thailand, China, Italy and all forms of snacksfrom pub food to pizzas. For visitors who wishto stay a little longer the town has a 15thcentury hotel in the town centre (where legendhas it that Dick Turpin once stayed) andanother hotel on the banks of the River Thamesat nearby Shillingford. Bed-and-breakfastaccommodation, and caravan and campingsites are also available.This is just a sample of all the things thatWallingford has to offer its visitors. For moreinformation contact the Town InformationCentre. Tel: 01491 826972 (see inside frontcover for more details)5

Wallingford - an Ancient Borough6Wallingford is a town steeped in history.From the medieval bridge over theThames to the grassy banks of its ancientfortifications, it proclaims a colourfulpast. It’s a town of surprises with thebustle of the Market Place and thetranquillity of the quiet back-streets -a place to explore.Earliest TimesIt was the river that first attracted settlersto the area and in the Bronze and IronAges the rich soils encouraged farmingcommunities. The Romans in turn lefttraces of occupation - burials, roads,coins and pottery, but it was left to theAnglo-Saxons to build the first town.A large 6th century pagan cemeteryfound in Wallingford indicates the earlypresence of the Saxon newcomers but bythe 9th century there was anotherinvasion threat - this time from theVikings. King Alfred, the Saxon king ofWessex, defeated the enemy but todefend his kingdom against further Vikingattacks he built many fortified towns orburhs and here the story of the townreally begins.The Town is BornWallingford was the biggest of Alfred’snewly fortified towns - as large as hiscapital, Winchester. It was enclosed onthree sides by earthen walls, capped witha wooden palisade and surrounded by awet moat - the remains of which can stillbe seen today, mostly clearly in theKinecroft, Bullcroft andcastle grounds. The riverand a bridgehead formedthe fourth side of thetown’s defence and theoriginal 9th century streetlayout is still largelyunchanged. St Leonard’schurch has survivingAnglo-Saxon features, and as you shop inWaitrose, spare a thought for the longlost Saxon church of St Martin and itsformer worshippers who lie quietlybeneath in a large cemetery! Coins werestruck in Wallingford at a Royal Mint andSaxon kings held land in the town andkept soldiers here. By 1066, when thenext invader arrived, Wallingford was theleading town in Berkshire.

1066 and All That!In 1066, fresh from winning the Battle ofHastings, William the Conqueror came toWallingford seeking a suitable place tocross the Thames with his army. Wigod,the lord of Wallingford, welcomedWilliam, and for their co-operation thepeople of Wallingford were given an extrahour before curfew - 9pm instead of 8pm.The curfew bell still tolls just before nine,declaring the king’s ancient favour. One ofWilliam’s knights married Wigod’sdaughter and, on William’s instructions,the Normans began in 1067 to build amassive castle here which was todominate thetown’s historyfor the next600 years.Granting ofthe Charter- 1155The first phaseof WallingfordCastle wascomplete by 1071 but it was laterexpanded to have three walls and ditchesand to be one of the most impressive andpowerful castles in England. During the12th century Civil War between QueenMatilda and her cousinStephen, Wallingfordwas the chiefstronghold of theQueen in centralEngland and here thetreaty that concludedthe war was firstagreed in 1153.In 1155, Henry II held his first GreatCouncil at Wallingford. He openlyrewarded the town forsupporting his motherMatilda, by granting it amagnificent Charter ofLiberties - one of the oldest inEngland. Together with manyspecial privileges, thisCharter confirmedWallingford’s ancient rightsto have its own Guild andBurgesses and to hold regularmarkets, traditions whichcontinue to this day. Thetown’s regalia, including the17th century silver-gilt mace,are still used and aredisplayed in the Town Hall.The Medieval TownBy the 13th century, Wallingford had 11parishes, each with its own church - oneof which was also the Priory, a cell of StAlban’s Abbey. Besides these there wasthe Free Hospital of St John, a College ofCanons of St Nicholas in the castle andtwo gate chapels.By the end of the next century, theravages of the Black Death had takentheir toll. At least a third of thetownspeople died and only fourchurches were left in use. This, togetherwith the growth of rival towns and thebuilding of a new bridge at Abingdon asan alternative route for traders, had led toa severe economic decline in the life ofthe town.7

8Royal ConnectionsThe castle belonged to the King but in the14th century it became part of the Duchyof Cornwall, passing to the eldest son ofthe monarch. It always witnessedfrequent royal visitors and residents,including King John and his younger son,Richard Earl of Cornwall, who greatlyextended it. Edward II gave it to hisfavourite, Piers Gaveston, who held ahuge tournament in the castle ward in1307. Edward II’s wife, Isabella, plottedhere against her husband with RogerMortimer, who was involved in Edward’ssubsequent murder. Isabella spent herlater life living in the castle. Hergrandson, Edward the Black Prince, keptWallingford as his principal residence.Constables appointed to look after thecastle included Thomas Chaucer (son ofthe poet Geoffrey) and William, Duke ofSuffolk, and his wife Alice, (Geoffrey’sgrand-daughter) who were benefactors ofthe 15th century school and almshouseswhich are still in use in nearby Ewelme.Also in the 15th century, Owen Tudor hadthe task of protecting the young KingHenry VI who was tutored at WallingfordCastle. Owen formed a liaison withHenry’s young widowed mother,Katherine of Valois, and from this affaircame the great line of the Tudor Kings ofEngland.Change & DecayBy the 16th century the castle wasdecaying. There was less need for strongcastles in the more settled times of theTudors and Henry VIII shipped timber andlead from Wallingford down river bybarge to enlarge his castle at Windsor.Wallingford & the Civil War1642-1651When a dispute arose between Charles Iand Parliament, Wallingford Castle oncemore had a major role to play in a CivilWar. The King, driven out of London, setup his court in Oxford. Round thisRoyalist centre a ring of strongholds wasestablished to protect the King andWallingford Castle was one of them - refortifiedto meet the challenge of modernwarfare. The Governor,Colonel Blagge, repairedthe inner castle walls anddemolished the nearby AllHallows Church to preventits use as an enemy gunemplacement. The kingmade several visits to

Wallingford and castle troopswere engaged in many localskirmishes and battles.WallingfordUnder SiegeBy 1646, events had turnedagainst the King. He wasforced to leave Oxford, whichsurrendered to Parliament inJune. Now only Wallingfordremained, its garrisonfaithfully holding the town andcastle for the King under theleadership of Colonel Blagge.After a twelve week siege, theking was defeated elsewhere,so honourable surrenderterms were finally agreed.Colonel Blagge’s men almostmutinied over lack of pay, buton July 27th 1646, he led hisgallant garrison out ofWallingford Castle with fullhonours. They were allowedto march, with their weaponsat the ready, ten miles fromthe town before disbanding toreturn to their homes.The castle was thengarrisoned by Parliament andused as a prison but in 1652Oliver Cromwell’s Council ofState decided it was too greata risk to allow it to remain.They ordered - and paid for -its total demolition. The castlestone was sold and some of itwas used to build a new towerfor St Mary’s church.9

10Wallingford -The Later YearsAfter the demolition of the castle,Wallingford settled down to its role as anordinary market town. Its brewing andmalting industries, together with lateriron-founding, complemented the ruralcommunities in the surrounding area andsurvived until fairlyrecently.St. Leonard’sSt. Mary’sSt. Peter’sOf the town’snumerous parishchurches there are justthree left today - butthey and the many nonconformistchapels areworth a visit.St Leonard’s is theearliest, with late Saxonwork in the walls andNorman work inside. StMary’s was rebuilt inthe 19th century but itretains the 17th centurytower built from thecastle stone and themonuments insidereflect the manybenefactors of thetown. St Peter’s is nowa redundant church butit is notable for its 18thcentury architectureand spire and as theburial place of thefamed Sir WilliamBlackstone who was achurchwarden, livingmost of his later life innearby Castle Priory.He is internationally famed for his lawbooks, written in Wallingford, whichformed the basis of the Constitution ofthe United States. For 21 years, from 1749to 1770, when he was appointed Justice inthe Court of Common Pleas, he wasRecorder of Wallingford,presiding over theQuarter Sessions inthe Town Hall wherethere is now a BluePlaque in his memory.The present RomanCatholic Church in theMarket Place began life as aCongregational chapel in 1799! TheBaptist Church was founded in 1794 andthe Methodist chapel was built in 1870. Afine Quaker Meeting House, opened in1724, is tucked away in Castle Street.The railway came in 1866 in the form of abranch line from Cholsey and the ’Bunk',as it was known, continued until the axefell in 1959. Now the Cholsey &Wallingford Railway Preservation Societyruns the line.Wallingford continues its long tradition asa Market Town but today the medievalstalls have been replaced by a weeklyFriday Market, a monthly Farmers’Market, and an exciting mixture ofindependent businesses, long-establishedfamily shops and a supermarket. It alsoseems appropriate that there is a wealthof antique shops in the town to delightcollectors and browsers with remnants ofthe past, whilst the town’s delightfulmuseum in the High Street brings thewhole Wallingford Story vividly to life.© Judy & Stuart Dewey 2009

Remembering Wilding & AndrewOn the 9th September 1944, the 426(Thunderbird) Squadron, 4 Group, BomberCommand, of the Royal Canadian Air Forceleft Linton-on-Ouse, York. They were to makea sortie to Le Havre but the weather made itimpossible to bomb with accuracy and theattack was called off.One Halifax VII bomber, NP68I was hit by flak.To land safely back in Linton several bombswere ditched in the English Channel, leavingten 500lb bombs on board. The plane wasengulfed in smoke and flames. The pilot, JohnWilding, gave the order to abandon theaircraft. MacKay, the rear gunner, advised thatthe turret was unserviceable. Wilding told himnot to panic, to do the best he could to get outsaying “I’ll try to hold it”.MacKay using his feet pushed until the doorgave way. An explosion followed and he rolledout through a sheet of flames and landed withan injured left leg.The wireless operator, Thorb (Tommy)Thompson bailed out, as did the navigator,Ed O’Meara. The bomb aimer, Len Irving, wasthe last to leave by the front hatch.During its last few moments the aircraftwas guided between Wallingford andBenson. It was seen to turn over on itsback and spin in.The plane came down at NewnhamMurren, Crowmarsh, about 500 yardsfrom the eastern boundary of Wallingford.Three tons of bombs still aboard, theaircraft exploded, the blast shaking thetown’s buildings and shattering windows.John Wilding’s body was found a few hundredyards away from the crater where theaircraft hit.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.John Andrew’s body was found about twentyfiveyards away from John Wilding with hisparachute harness attached, his parachutepack lying unopenedbeside his body.Flying OfficerJ.A.Wilding, althoughfrom New York City,emigrated with hisfamily from Bolton inLancashire. He wason his 20th sortie. Heis buried in theBrookwood MilitaryCemetery in Woking,Surrey. For his actionswith the Squadron hewas awarded theDFC and an MiDposthumously.Sergeant J.F.Andrew,is buried in KerryCemetery, Powys. Hewas credited with15 sorties.On the 21st May 1960 acairn and plaque in memoryof the two airmen who werekilled was unveiled. Itstands at the junction ofWilding and Andrew roadswhich are named afterthem.A service of Thanksgivingand Remembrance has beena statutory part of the Town events and every9th September the Canadian flag flies over thetown hall.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).13

Welcome to Wallingford Museum14Wallingford Museum is acolourful and delightfullyintimate local historymuseum, housed on twofloors in the medievaloak-beamed Flint Houseopposite the Saxonramparts in the Kinecroft and next to the PublicLibrary. There is ample car-parking behind thenearby Waitrose.Run entirely by volunteers, the Museumopened in 1981 and expanded in 2005. If youcan, allow 1 1 /2 hours for your visit - but if youkeep your season ticket you can always comeback again!The permanent displays tell The WallingfordStory – from before the existence of the townthrough the Saxon burh and royal medievalstronghold to the modern day. At the heart ofthis is our free audio-tour – no captions to readbut instead an unfolding maze brought to life bycommentary, music and sound effects. A scalemodel of Wallingford Castle reveals itsenormous size and there's a special exhibitabout Wallingford Priory - a cell of St Alban'sAbbey where the famous medieval clockmaker,Richard of Wallingford, was adopted bythe monks.Elsewhere, in the Victorian Courtyard there isa walk-in shop, a pub, a workshop and aWorkhouse peep-show. The Transport Gallerytells the story of river, road and railway, withhistoric photographs, models of WallingfordBridge, Thames weirs and Wallingford Station.Special features on local celebrities includeJudge Blackstone, author of the famousCommentaries on the Laws of England whichinfluenced the Constitution and laws of theUSA; Dame Agatha Christie, 'Queen ofCrime', who lived in the town for forty years;and a group of Victorian Artists, the Leslie &Hayllar families and their neighbour ClaudeRowbotham.Each year sees new special exhibitions and themuseum is always family friendly with activitiessuch as 'Touchy Feely' drawers and digging insandpits for real archaeological finds.Wallingford Museum is open every year fromMarch to November, 2.00-5.00pm everyweekday except Monday, 10.30am-5.00pm onSaturdays and 2.00-5.00pm on Sundays (June-Aug) & Bank Hols. Accompanied children arefree and adult tickets give unlimited admissionall season. For details of prices, group & schoolvisits (inc. out of hours) and guided walks - seewww.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

Wallingford Rowing ClubWallingford has always been well knownand famous for the river, indeed taking itsname from the crossing it provided topeople and animals. A whole host ofpeople are still actively using the river,especially the town’s oarsmen andwomen. The Rowing Club is situated in anold part of the town by the river on thelongest stretch of water on the “UpperThames”. This six and a half mile stretchbetween the locks of Benson and Cleevegives plenty of uninterrupted water for itsmembers to train on.In the club’s relatively young history (over60 years) crews from Wallingford havebecome feared and respected by otherboat clubs all over the country. They havehad success on several occasions atHenley Royal Regatta and many of themembers have represented Great Britainat the World Championships and OlympicGames.Great Britain’syoungest maleOlympian; KenLester, a cox inthe 1960 RomeOlympics wasborn in thesame year asthe Rowing Clubwas founded. He is still living inWallingford and continues to enjoy usingthe Club’s facilities.New members and visitors, both activeand social are always welcome.For further information visitwww.wallingfordrc.co.uk15

The River ThamesA sight not to be missed is Royal Swan Upping,an annual ceremonial voyage along the RiverThames in which a census of the swanpopulation is taken. It takes place during thethird week in July of each year.Welcome to the River Thames which flowsthrough South Oxfordshire for approximately48 miles, the longest stretch of the river in anyone county.One of the many ways to explore the Thamesis by boat and organised boat trips run in thesummer months from the Riverside Park.Nearby Benson has rowing boats, canoes andmotorboats for hire by the hour.Our Riverside Park has recently undergonerefurbishment with easy access and plentifulparking. It’s the perfect venue for you to enjoya picnic, the outdoor heated swimming pooland the paddling pool.Alternatively, for the more energetic, youcould walk the Thames Path. Our stretch of theThames at Wallingford is one of the mostbeautiful in the country.If its camping or caravanning you’re after, hereare two superb sites within easy walkingdistance of the river and town.Riverside ParkThe Street, Crowmarsh Gifford, WallingfordOxfordshire OX10 8EBTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 83523216Bridge Villa Caravan & CampingThe Street, Crowmarsh Gifford, WallingfordOxfordshire OX10 8HBTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 836860

Riverside MooringsFind out more about the town at the Museumlocated in the High Street and the TownInformation Centre in the Market Place, whileyou are there why not visit the Corn Exchangewhich is featured as Causton in the TVdrama Midsomer Murders, then relax inone of the many coffee shops, pubsand restaurants.For visitors to the town arriving by way of theriver, there are excellent moorings located justnorth of, and very close to, the ancientWallingford Bridge. To tie up here brings oneclose to the centre of historic Wallingfordhaving travelled through the beautiful SouthOxfordshire countryside, the setting for JeromeK. Jerome’s story, ‘ Three Men In a Boat ’ andthe stretch of river used by the Oxford BoatRace crew for training.What better spot to stay awhile with excellentmoorings on both sides of the river with on-sitefacilities which include waste, recyclingfacilities and a stand pipe for the collection ofwater. The shower block is situated within thecampsite and the swimming pool area.Welcome to Wallingford moorings and thegateway to a wonderful experience.Resting here beside the ancient bridge one canabsorb some of Wallingford’s history. All thisand only a few minutes walk from the centre oftown for some shopping, with many smallindependent shops to explore including TheLamb Antiques Arcade.17

Welcome to Wallingford - a Unique Shopping Experience...Clothing, Interior Design shop, Travel Agents,Bookshop, Tea & Coffee shop with its ownblends, and of course Pettits, SouthOxfordshire’s leading Department Store.Wallingford today offers a wonderful mix ofold and new. We have it all; unspoilt riversidewith a towpath beside the meadows, heatedopen air swimming pool, landscaped acres ofthe Kinecroft & Bullcroft Park, prize winningCastle Gardens, an ancient town centre withc17th Town Hall and narrow Saxon streetswhich house many excellent and varied shops.We start our visit in the High Street with itsAntique shops and Goldsmiths. The LambArcade, once an old coaching inn, is now aunique shopping experience, at the crossroadsWaitrose have a quality superstore. Walk alittle further and you will find a Health &Fitness Centre and a shop specialising inViolins, Violas and Cellos.Apart from the Town Hall and Corn Exchangein the Market Place you can find a Chemists,Stationers and Ladies Fashion Shops.St Mary’s Street is full of surprises with Art &Craft materials, Antiquarian and Second-handbookshops, Sportswear, Bridal Centre, ShoeRepairers, Toy Shop, Christian Book Shop,Cycle Centre, Beauty Salon plus Hats andAccessories for every occasion. Leading on toSt Leonard’s Square where a Patchwork andQuilting Centre can be found.You will find the area surrounding St Mary’sArcade has been sympathetically restored asa delightful shopping area with a picturesquecourtyard, Beauty Salon, Craft Shop andtrendy Photographers all of which can befound here.Seek out St Peter’s Place where they have aspecialist Lighting and Accessories shop,Unisex Hairdressers, Curtain Design Centre, aSales & Hire Centre,Castle Street is home to an Office Suppliesshop and a Thai Restaurant situated in thehistorical cellars of the Lamb Arcade.If our specialist shops are not enough to temptyou, then we can help you with everythingfrom Accountants to planning your wedding inthe Town Hall. If it’s Markets you’re interestedin we have plenty including the weekly FridayCharter Market, Country Market and on the3rd Tuesday of every month we have anextensive Farmers Market on the marketplace and Local Producers Market in theRegal Centre.We have it all - Culture, History, the RiverThames and Shops with friendly staff. Thereare also plenty of inviting Pubs, Restaurantsand Cafes for you to relax in and enjoy.We look forward to sharing all of this with you!18Wander down St Martin’s Street where thereis a jeweller with New, Second-hand andAntique Jewels, Ladies Fashion Accessories &

HIGH STREETLeft hand side from bridgeHIGH STREETRight hand side from bridgeWallingford Tandoori4 High Street01491 836249Summers Davies AntiquesCalleva House 6 High Street01491 836284Mike Ottery Antiques16 High Street01491 836429Castle Osteopathic & Natural Health Clinic23 High Street01491 838363Spirit Hair Salon23-24 High Street01491 834155Forresters Hair Salon25 High Street01491 837523O’Donnell Antiques26 High Street01491 839332Brooker & Breeze - Goldsmiths27 High Street01491 835050San Sicario - Italian Restaurant28 High Street01491 834078The Gallery30 High Street01491 828202The Boat House - Bar & Grill103 High Street01491 834100The Gate House - Public HouseHigh Street01491 824406Classic Cleaners - Laundry & Dry Cleaners91 High Street01491 837112Avanti Italian Restaurant85 High Street01491 835500The George HotelHigh Street01491 83666519

HIGH STREETRight hand side from bridgeWallingford Squash Club & Sports Shop86 High Street01491 835072NatWest BankHigh Street0845 6041604The Lamb Arcade - Lifestyle Centre,featuring; Antiques, Vintage, Retro Relics,and Modern Classics83 High Street01491 835166Oxfam - Charity Shop81 High Street01491 834179Mary HandyHair & Beauty Salon80 High Street01491 598323Thomas Merrifield - Estate Agents72 High Street01491 833833Stan James Racing - Bookmakers68 High StreetDelhi Brasserie - Indian Restaurant66 High Street01491 824597 or 01491 826666Smarts Fish & Chips - Takeaway64 - 65 High Street01491 824411Wallingford MuseumFlint HouseHigh Street01491 835065Welcome - Chinese Take Away79 High Street01491 839112Anokhi Cuisine - Bangladeshi andIndian Restaurant76 High Street01491 838077Waters Violins75 High Street01491 825616Style Acre Charity Shop74 High Street01491 824627Thames Valet - Dry Cleaners & Launderers73 High Street01491 834077Wallingford LibraryHigh Street01491 83739520The Cross Keys - Public House48 High Street01491 826377

MARKET PLACEBranching Out - Florist13 Market Place01491 833366Mistral - Ladies Fashion14 Market Place01491 832797Cancer Research - Charity Shop17 Market Place01491 837475Julian Graves - Niche Health Foods1 Market Place01491 839564Barclays Bank2 Market Place0845 7555555Costa Coffee3 Market Place01491 837990Lloyds Bank4 Market Place0845 0723333Corn Exchange - Theatre & CinemaMarket Place01491 825000KP Stationers18 Market Place01491 837979Post OfficeRear of Feathers Yard01491 837979Lloyds Pharmacy20 - 21 Market Place01491 836206Coral Bookmakers23 Market Place0800 242232Helen & Douglas House - Charity Shop24 Market Place01491 833589Greggs Bakers6 Market Place01491 836267Boots The Chemist7 - 8 Market Place01491 839061First Edition - Ladies Fashion & Shoes9 Market Place01491 837195Wallingford Town Information CentreUndercroft, Town Hall, Market Place01491 82697221

ST MARY’S STREETLeft hand side from High Street22Artmatters - Art & Craft Materials1 St Mary’s Street01491 826686The Dolphin - Public House2 St Mary’s Street01491 837377Clarks - Shoe Retailers5 St Mary’s Street01491 836112Allen & Harris - Estate Agents6 St Mary’s Street01491 835135Champion & Co Ltd - Ironmongers7 St Mary’s Street01491 836271House of Cards - Greetings Cards etc9 St Mary’s Street01491 826750Toby English - Antiquarian and SecondHand Bookshop10 St Mary’s Street01491 836389Chancellors - Estate Agents11 St Mary’s Street01491 837567Pizza Express12 St Mary’s Street01491 833431Shoes in Twos14 St Mary’s Street01491 826620Nationwide Building Society15 St Mary’s Street01491 881800Sportswise16 St Mary’s Street01491 834585HomeBase Management - Letting Agents16(B) St Mary’s Street01491 824470Just Trading of Wallingford Ltd17 St Mary’s Street01491 824778The Bridelicious Boutique19 St Mary’s Street01491 826699Elaine Mathews - Dressmaker19 St Mary’s Street07880 973252Feet First - Shoe Repairs & Travel Goods21 St Mary’s Street01491 825224Thames Hair Salon - Barbers21 St Mary’s Street01491 837124Buskers Gift Centre21 St Mary’s Street01491 839771Kev’s Toy Shop21 St Mary’s Street01491 825136The Fountain Christian Bookshop21b St Mary’s Street01491 839511Julies - Ladies Hairdressers24 St Mary’s Street01491 836030Beauty Corner24 St Mary’s Street01491 836626Beijing Diner - Chinese Restaurant26 St Mary’s Street01491 826908The Partridge - Country Pub & Eating32 St Mary’s Street01491 825005

ST MARY’S STREETRight hand side from High StreetRags in Bags - Ladies Wear53a St Mary’s Street01491 838819Classic Beauty - Beauty Salon53 St Mary’s Street01491 832432Indigo Rye - Hairdressers51 St Mary’s Street01491 834141Patricia Hayselden & Partners - Opticians60 St Mary’s Street01491 835466Full Circle - Travel Agents59 St Mary’s Street01491 834827Mary Brookes - Ladies Fashion58 St Mary’s Street01491 838110Bloc Brazilian - Coffee Shop57 St Mary’s Street07812 101604A Step Ahead - Hair Studio56 St Mary’s Street01491 832323Mr Simms - Olde Sweet Shop56a St Mary’s StreetPettits of Wallingford - Department Store46 - 50 St Mary’s Street01491 835253The Gallery Coffee ShopFirst FloorPettits of Wallingford46 - 50 St Mary’s Street01491 835253Cutler Architects43 St Mary’s Street01491 838130JP Knight - Property Agents42 St Mary’s Street01491 834349The Coachmakers Arms Tavern37 St Mary’s Street01491 832231Louise Claire Millinery36 St Mary’s Street01491 826244Oxfam - Charity Shop53b St Mary’s Street01491 83583123

ST MARTINS STREETRight hand side from High StreetThe Old Post Office -RestaurantSt Martin’s Street01491 839348Wallingford Bookshop10c St Martin’s Street01491 834383Rides on Air - Cycle Shop11 St Martin’s Street01491 836289Waitrose1 St Martin’s Street01491 832030Triangle Travel18 St Martin’s Street01491 825155Sue Ryder - Charity Shop4 St Martin’s Street01491 825714Taylors -Estate Agents5 St Martin’s Street01491 836651U.S.A Takeaway6 St Martin’s Street01491 835777Salvador’s Deli5a St Martin’s Street01491 825708Blockbusters Video19 St Martin’s Street01491 825398Lesters - Estate Agents23 St Martin’s Street01491 824000Wallingford Tea &Coffee Shop6a St Martin’s Street01491 836263Robert Stanley Opticians8 St Martin’s Street01491 837033The Flower Studio - Florist10 St Martin’s Street01491 82536524Care Dry Cleaners10b St Martin’s Street01491 837318

ST MARTINS STREETLeft hand side from High StreetMGJ Jewellers Ltd1a St Martin’s Street01491 834336Occasions Unlimited - Cards & Gifts1b St Martin’s StreetBloomers - Sandwich Bar & Restaurant53 St Martin’s Street01491 825465Masterfloors52 St Martin’s Street01491 833701Bijoux Gallerie Ltd - Gifts and Jewellery50 St Martin’s Street01491 835485Sibos - Mens Hairdressers45 St Martin’s Street01491 838505Down To Earth - Local Produce35 St Martin’s Street01491 837711Gary Smith Butchers & Fishmongers34 St Martin’s Street01491 833553Swaggers - Fashion Accessories & Clothing51 St Martin’s Street01491 824022ST MARY’S ARCADEST LEONARD’S SQUAREPoppycraft - Craftwork Materials1 St Mary’s Arcade01491 833344Pizza Cafe2 St Mary’s Arcade01491 826222Hornsby Dunmore -Gift Emporium6 St Mary’s Arcade01491 825742More Than Images5-7 St Mary’s Arcade0800 5427852Village Fabrics - Patchwork &Quilting Supplies4-5 St Leonard’s Square01491 204100Look In - Hairdressing for MenSt Leonard’s Square07710 479003The Green Tree - Public HouseSt Leonard’s Square01491 83535525

CASTLE STREETBoots OpticiansIncorporating Dollond & AitchisonI Castle Street01491 833200Hong Kong House - Chinese Take Away2 Castle Street01491 835453Higgs - Printing & Office Supplies3 Castle Street01491 837205In-House Estate Agents4 Castle Street01491 839999The Thai CornerLamb ArcadeCastle Street01491 825050ST PETERS PLACEClean Machine - Sales & Hire Centre1-2 St Peters Place01491 825600A.G. Curtain Design3 St Peters Place01491 834238First Cut - Ladies Hairdresser4 St Peters Place01491 833225Illumin-Nation Ltd - Lighting & Accessories5 St Peters Place01491 83350526

Cholsey & Wallingford RailwayThe Cholsey and WallingfordRailway has been preservingWallingford’s railway heritage since 1981.The ex-GWR branch line runs for nearly 3miles through the countryside and terminatesat the village of Cholsey. From herepassengers may board trains to Reading,Oxford and beyond.The railway society has 5 residential heritagediesel locomotives and various visiting steamengines; all of our passenger carrying rollingstock is over 50 years old.The railway is open for passengers onapproximately 35 days per year betweenEaster and Christmas. Special events arerun at Easter, Halloween, Christmas andat BunkFest.Visitors are always welcome to look around onnon-running days. There is usually somebodyat the station on most weekends.The railway is a non profit making charitabletrust which is staffed entirely by volunteers.If you could become a volunteering memberand help out at the railway please come along- you will receive a warm welcome.The Corn ExchangeThe Corn ExchangeTheatre, Cinema & BarFilms, Theatre, Comedy, Music and awarm welcome at Wallingford’sindependent cinema and theatre.Bar open Friday and Saturday morningand pre-show in the evening.Box office open for callers and phonebookings 10:00 - 13:00 Friday andSaturday and 19:00 - 20:00 everyevening.01491 825000 CornExchange.org.ukFacebook.com/CornExchangeWallingford27

Nearby Places to Visit28Whether you are visiting theTown for a day or planning alonger break to enjoy thesurrounding area, there areopportunities to make the best ofyour visit whatever your ageor interests.The Island Farm DonkeySanctuary in the nearby villageof Brightwell-cum-Sotwell is anindependent charity dedicated tothe welfare of mistreated andneglected donkeys. Visitors arewelcomed throughout the yearbut it is recommended that youtelephone first to make sure thatthe staff are available to showyou around.Earth Trust Estate owns andmanages the Wittenham Clumps,Little Wittenham Nature Reserve,a conservation farm, arboretumand runs an exciting educationprogramme. The Trust runs avaried programme of eventsthroughout the year includingguided walks, lambingweekends, craft workshops,farm visits and The Clumps Clubfor children. Project Timescapeis Earth Trust’s new visitor andeducation centre based near theWittenhamClumps.Visitors can become a scientistfor the day and performexperiments, handle skeletonbones and discover how theiractions today will change thelandscape in the future.A little further afield is thePendon Museum in the village ofLong Wittenham with its railwayof a previous age in miniature orthe Great Western Society’sDidcot Railway Centre with its“steam days”, specialist museumand tea shop.Crowmarsh Gifford stands acrossthe River Thames fromWallingford where access to theRiverside Park is from the easternend of the bridge.The church wasoriginally built in1122 as the chapelof a leper colonythat was lookedafter by monksfrom WallingfordPriory.For those whoenjoy walking,Wallingford is onestop along theThames Path which runs for 185miles from its source to the sea;for example, Benson Lock is apleasant summer’s day walk away.Many places along the path areserved by regular buses fromWallingford which enable you toplan as long or short a walk astime permits. You may wish totravel to Moulsford and walk onthe Wessex Downs, or go on toGoring with its stunning views

from the Berkshire side and visit the variety ofvillage shops and teashops. It is said that theriver bank between Streatley and Pangbourneprovided the inspiration for Kenneth Graham’sWind in the Willows.The local buses also cross the RidgewayNational Trail which follows much of the 85miles long Ridgeway from its start at Avebury.On the same road is Basildon Park which isowned by the National Trust. The 18th centurymansion was used to accommodate soldiersduring both world wars and was rescued andrestored by the late Lord and Lady Iliffe.Dorchester stands just offthe road between Wallingfordand Oxford and close to theconfluence of the rivers Thamesand Thame. In Saxon times itwas the seat of a bishopricthat stretched north as far asLincolnshire. The church of thegreat abbey, which dates fromthe late 12th century,still remains.The attractive village of Ewelme,some 3 miles from Wallingford,has medieval origins that are stillvisible in the school. Thealmshouses and the 15th centurychurch were restored byGeoffrey Chaucer’s granddaughterAlice. The ancientwatercress beds at Ewelmehave recently been restored andteas are offered in the schoolon most Sundays in thesummer season.A few miles away, set in theChilterns at Stoke Row, is theMaharajah’s Well which wasbuilt in 1864 as a gift from theMaharajah of Benares in India to his friend MrE A Reade of Ipsden. The cast iron cover andelephant on the well head were cast byWilder’s in Wallingford.Hadden Hill Golf Club is a club that welcomesvisitors to play the full-length 18-hole course(6,563 yard) and use the floodlit drivingrange, putting green and par 3 course.The golf course is laid out over gentlyundulating parkland with wonderful views onthe back nine over the downs. The greens areof an exceptionally high standard and thewhole course is extremely well drained andplayable throughout the whole year. HaddenHill is located between Wallingford andDidcot.South Oxfordshire is supporting Sustrans, thenational cycle trail. Part of the route betweenReading and Oxford passes throughWallingford and on to Didcot.For those seeking the more rural activities, theJudge’s Ride is a local circular route for theenthusiastic horse-rider.29

Accommodation in and around WallingfordHotels:The George Hotel(Hotel 3 Star)High Street,Wallingford,Oxfordshire,OX10 OBSTelephone:+44 (0) 1491 836665The Springs Hotel & Golf Club (Hotel 3 Star)Wallingford Road, North Stoke, Wallingford,Oxfordshire, OX10 6BETelephone: +44 (0) 1491 836687The Shillingford Bridge HotelShillingford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8LZTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 858567The White Hart Nettlebed (Hotel 3 Star)Nettlebed, Oxfordshire, RG9 5DDTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 641245The White Hart Hotel (Hotel 3 Star)26 High Street, Dorchester on Thames,Oxfordshire, OX10 7HNTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 340074The George Hotel (Hotel 3 Star)High Street, Dorchester on Thames,Oxfordshire, OX10 7HHTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 340404Bed & Breakfasts:Little Gables B & B (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star)166 Crowmarsh Hill, Wallingford,Oxfordshire, OX10 8BGTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 837834Mays Farm (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond)Ewelme, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6QFTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 641294Wittas Ham Cottage (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond)High Street, Long Wittenham, Oxfordshire, OX14 4QHTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 407686Huntington House (Bed and Breakfast 3 Star)18 Wood Street, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 0AXTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 839201Marsh House (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star)Court Drive, Shillingford, Wallingford,Oxfordshire, OX10 7ERTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 858496Fords Farm - Silver Award (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star)Ewelme, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6HUTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 839272Alouette (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star)2 Caldicott Close, Shillingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7HFTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 858600The Grange (Bed and Breakfast 3 Star)The Grange, Long Wittenham, Oxfordshire, OX13 40HTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 407808Hill Farm (Bed and Breakfast 3 Star)Newington, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7ALTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 891173Stag Hall (Bed and Breakfast 3 diamond)Stoke Row Road, Kingwood, Oxfordshire, RG9 5NXTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 680338North Moreton House (Bed and Breakfast 5 diamond)North Moreton, Oxfordshire, OX11 9ATTelephone: +44 (0) 1235 813283Stapletons Chantry (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond)Long Wittenham Road, North Moreton,Oxfordshire, OX11 9AXTelephone: +44 (0) 1235 818900Brookside (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond)Brook Street, Benson, Wallingford,Oxfordshire OX10 6LJTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 838289Oxford Holiday Cottage (Self Catering 4 Star)Haddow Close, Sires Hill, Little Wittenham,Oxfordshire, OX11 9BGTelephone: +44 (0) 1235 512519Perch and Pike (Inn 4 Star)The Street, South Stoke, Oxfordshire, RG8 0JSTelephone: +44 (0) 1491 872415The Kingsfisher Inn (Bed and Breakfast 4 diamond)27 Henley Road, Shillingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 7ELTelephone: +44 (0) 1865 858595Fyfield Manor - (Bed and Breakfast 4 Star)Benson, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6HATelephone: +44 (0) 1491 83518430 Wallingford Town Council cannot accept responsibility for the quality of the above accommodation.

Website information & MapCholsey and Wallingford Railway Preservation Society,24 hour information: 01491 835067 - www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.comCorn Exchange Cinema & Theatre: 01491 825000 - www.cornexchange.org.ukDidcot Railway Centre: 01235 817200 - www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.ukDorchester Abbey: www.dorchester-abbey.org.ukEwelme Cress Beds: 01491 872795/835173 - www.chilternsociety.org.ukHadden Hill Golf Club: 01235 510410 - www.haddenhillgolf.co.ukIsland Farm Donkey Sanctuary: 01491 833938 - www.donkeyrescue.org.ukEarth Trust: 01865 407792 - www.northmoortrust.co.ukNuffield Place: 01491 641224 - www.nuffield-place.comPendon Museum: 01865 407365 - www.pendonmuseum.comRidgeway National Trail & The Thames Path: 01865 810224 - www.nationaltrail.co.ukWallingford Museum: 01491 835065 - www.wallingfordmuseum.org.ukWallingford Rowing Club: www.wallingford.rowing.org.ukWallingford Sports Park: 01491 835044 - www.southoxon.gov.ukCAMPSITERIVERSIDEPARKST. PETERSST.MARYSCAMPSITEHow to get here by public transport:ST. LEONARDST: 01491 837 988E: office@thames-travel.co.ukW: www.thames-travel.co.ukNational Traveline: 0870 608 260831

The Centre of AttractionWeddings at Wallingford Town HallYour wedding day is one of the most importantdays in your life and Wallingford Town Hallprovides the ideal setting to make it a dayto remember.Situated in the centre of the town, and withineasy reach of the main car parks, it is a timberframebuilding that was constructed in 1670. Thetwo public rooms are on the first floor and themain room has good views over the MarketPlace. Access is via an external stone staircase;however, a stairlift is available on an internalstaircase for people with mobility difficulties.The main room gives an all-pervading sense ofthe history of the town. On the walls are boardslisting all mayors since 1231 and portraits ofmajor town benefactors look down upon theceremony. This room can comfortablyaccommodate up to 60 guests.For more intimate ceremonies the smallerCommittee Room has the perfect ambience forup to 20 guests. This room has more portraits,and also has a display cabinet containing theTown Plate including the mace that is dated1650 and is said to have been copied for themace of the House of Commons.The décor of both rooms has been carefullydesigned to be in keeping with the period of thebuilding and to provide a suitable backdrop forthe all-important photographs.Receptions, Special Occasions,Conferences & ExhibitionsAre you looking for that distinctive location fora 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 0ALTel: 01491 835373 Web: www.wallingford.co.ukWith thanks to Dee Cripps, Kevin Harvey, Mark Phillips and Christian Sinkinson for the use of various photographs in this brochure.