Main Towns

Focus on Abingdon

Abingdon, the principal town in the Vale is only six miles south-west of Oxford. The town has evidence of being the oldest Bronze Age settlement in England. It developed around the Abbey built in the 7th Century. The part of the Abbey that survives today is open for functions and events including productions in the Unicorn theatre, an October design and craft fair and on certain summer afternoons. The town prospered through its markets which were established in the 13th Century and have continued. There is a market each Monday, Farmers' Market (third Monday in the month). There are many fine buildings in and around the town, lovely riverside walks and summer boat trips.

CTS Wi-Fi spot now available in Abingdon Town Centre.

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Focus on Faringdon

Faringdon makes a delightful holiday base for the threshold of the Cotswolds, with Oxford only a half-hour drive away. From Faringdon you can enjoy exploring four of England's most beautiful counties - Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. Its strategic position between the Thames and Ridgeway has given rise to a long history for the town. Faringdon (meaning 'fern-covered hill') was the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Wessex and Alfred the Great had his castle here.

The Domesday book records a manor with mill, fishing and land for 15 ploughs. The great tithe barn at nearby Great Coxwell by the Abbey of Beaulieu bears evidence to the fertility of the Vale of the White Horse.

King John gave the town a royal charter in 1216 for a weekly market which continues to this day in the Market place.

Later during the Civil War, Roundhead Sir Robert Pye found himself a prisoner in his own home, Faringdon House, which dates back to 1730. Fable suggests a poorly aimed cannon-ball knocked the spire off All Saints church! Their remains a cannon ball lodged in the wall to this day - but that's another story.

The 17th century Town Hall remains the focal point of the town, surrounded by Georgian-fronted inns and shops of the market-place.

Focus on Wantage

Wantage is an ideal place for a visit combining the town and its museum with walking on the Ridgeway. Its charm attracts many visitors who enjoy its easy access to the uplifting countryside and the freedom of The Ridgeway National Trail just 2 miles, (3.5 kilometres) above the town.

For details of public car parks in the Vale's main towns please visit the Vale of White Horse District Council car parks page.