The UK is home to some gorgeous market towns, but not all of them can claim to be the oldest in England. On top of that, this little market town sits on the longest river in the country and, even more importantly, has been described as a “pub heaven”.
Abingdon sits on the banks of the River Thames and is packed with riverside walks, old buildings, and traditional pubs. It’s also believed to be the oldest continuously occupied town in England, with evidence of settlements dating back more than 6,000 years.
Archaeologists have also found hand axes from around 400,000 years ago in the area, and records show the town developed over centuries thanks to its location where three rivers meet.
A powerful abbey was established there in the 7th century. It later became one of the wealthiest in the country and was visited by William the Conqueror.
His son, who became King Henry I, was educated there. The abbey was eventually destroyed in the 1500s during the reign of Henry VIII, but some of its original buildings still survive.
According to Abingdon-on-Thames Town Council, the town later became the county town of Berkshire before moving into Oxfordshire in 1974.
The council website says: “Abingdon-on-Thames has a claim on being the oldest town in England. A unique piece of England at its finest and a great place to visit.”
Despite its ancient past, it’s the local pub scene that grabs the most attention from visitors.
One reviewer wrote: “Forget everywhere else – Abingdon-on-Thames is a genuine pub heaven.
“I challenge anyone to find another small town with such a high density of incredible, CAMRA-award-winning establishments right in the centre. This town truly understands good beer and hospitality.”
Another said: “Abingdon is where beer lovers belong. The pubs here are definitely part of the charm. My favourite was The King’s Head & Bell.”
There are plenty of pubs to choose from, including The Brewery Tap, which has won the local CAMRA Pub of the Year award several times.
One visitor said: “Their selection of real ale and craft keg is phenomenal, and the smokehouse BBQ is the perfect accompaniment. It’s a proper local pub with fantastic energy.”
Others loved The Broad Face and The Nag’s Head, which sits on its own island in the middle of the river.
“The riverside garden views are magical, especially at sunset,” said one review. “They often host live music. It’s an enchanting spot for a pint.”
Beyond the pubs, visitors can enjoy boat trips on the Thames, stop for a picnic by the weir, or walk along the Thames Path and Vale Way.
The town also has regular markets, an outdoor pool, and several historic buildings open to the public.
Visit Thames says the town has 34 buildings from the 1600s and 22 that are even older.
Some, like St Helen’s Church and the old almshouses, still play a role in local life today.
One reviewer added: “Abingdon-on-Thames is a hidden gem that often gets overshadowed by nearby Oxford, but it shouldn’t be missed, especially if you love history and craft drinks.”