The Conqueror, Cromwell and Agatha Christie

Wallingford is a town with a rich history that includes the Saxons, the Normans, the English Civil War and not forgetting Agatha Christie. It owes its status to being at an important crossing point of the Thames, now crossed by its 900 feet long bridge that has survived, despite flood and siege.

At the centre of the town is a market square, with its 17th century Town Hall to the south. The former 19th century Corn Exchange (now a theatre) is to the east and numerous old shop buildings around the edges. Off the square there are alleyways and streets with more signs of history. Once boasting 14 churches, the surviving ones are St Mary le More, St Leonard and St Peter. It once also had enough pubs that, in a population of around 2,800, there was a drinking place for every 75 people. These pubs were mostly supplied by the several local breweries. Some historic inns remain. Now perhaps its most famous local industry is honey.

Probably the building with the biggest history is Wallingford Castle, now in ruins. It was established shortly after the Norman Conquest and has been described as one of the most important royal castles of the 12th and 13th centuries. 

Join us on a walking tour of the centre of Wallingford taking in some of the significant people, places and events.

The meeting place in Wallingford will be notified in the week running up to the walk. 

Numbers are limited, so pre-booking is required. Bookings close three days before the walk. 

To book, scroll down.

Image: website Southern portion of St Mary’s Street, Wallingford by Christopher Hilton, CC BY-SA 2.0

Location image: website High Street, Wallingford by Christopher Hilton, CC BY-SA 2.0