Wallingford is an attractive market town that owes its importance to being a convenient place to cross the Thames. In Saxon times it housed King Athelstan’s Royal Mint.

The Danes ransacked the town in 1006. Little remains of Wallingford Castle, built in 1071, which dominated the town for 565 years. It survived until the Roundhead commander, General Fairfax, besieged it in Civil War. It was dismantled in 1652.

The 350th anniversary of the siege, in 1996, was marked by a spectacular re-enactment at the castle itself, featuring authentically clad soldiers.

Places To Go

Basildon Park: Lower Basildon, Berkshire. An 18th century Palladian mansion, with small flower garden and woodland walks. House open March 29 to November 3, Wednesdays to Sundays and bank holidays, noon to 5pm. 01494 755558.
Benson Veteran Cycle Museum: 61 Brooke Street, Benson, Wallingford. Open April to August, by appointment only, call 01491 838414.
Cholsey and Wallingford Railway: St John’s Road. Restored two-mile line between Wallingford and Cholsey. For a timetable of operating days and seasonal specials, call 01491 652295.
Nuffield Place: on the A4130 between Wallingford and Nettlebed. Home of car magnate Lord Nuffield from 1934 to 1963. Open May to September on alternate Sundays. For information, call 01491 641224.
Wallingford Museum: Flint House, 52 High Street. Recreation of Victorian street, and a sight-and-sound walk through historic Wallingford. Open March to November Tuesdays to Fridays and bank holiday Mondays, 2pm to 5pm, Saturdays 10.30am to 5pm and Sundays (June to August only), 2pm to 5pm. Unlimited access throughout the season for £4, children free when accompanied by an adult. Call 01491 835065 or see the website: www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

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