Information About Wallingford, The Thames
Alternative Location: 
Things to do in Wallingford
Back to topWhy do we recommend stopping here?
An attractive and lively historic riverside town, with a good selection of shops, pubs and restaurants
What is there to see?
The remains of Wallingford's castle can be seen in Castle Gardens, near to the bridge. Built by William the Conqueror, the castle was finally destroyed at the orders of Oliver Cromwell in 1652. Much of Wallingford's Saxon town walls still exist, and make an interesting walk.
What can I visit?
The Cholsey & Wallingford Railway is a preserved former GWR branch line running from Wallingford Station, with trains operating on selected days. Wallingford's Town Museum in The High Street is open daily (except Mondays) from March to November.
Is this place famous for anything?
Wallingford was founded in the 10th Century, and is one of the Country's oldest Royal Boroughs, receiving it's charter in 1155.
Do any famous people live here?
Agatha Christie, the creator of the famous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, lived in Wallingford for some 40 years, and is buried nearby in Cholsey.
Insider Information
Wallingford had it's own mint for almost 300 years, producing coins until the 13th century.
Is there a market day?
Wallingford Charter Market every Friday, Wallingford W.I.Country Market every Friday in the Regal Centre, and a Farmer's Market every third Tuesday in the Market Place.
Is there a public swimming pool?
The Riverside Park & Pool, a large open-air heated swimming pool & free kiddies paddling pool is conveniently located at the eastern end of the bridge. (open daily mid-May to early September)
Alternative: Local children swim in the river, from the small beaches around the town.
Is there a tourist office?
Wallingford TIC, Town Hall, Market Place, Wallingford.
Is there a golf course here or nearby?
The Springs Hotel and Golf Club, Wallingford Road, North Stoke, Wallingford Tel: 01491 827310 Set in 133 acres of parkland and bordered by the river Thames. There are 3 lakes and some challenging wetland areas to add to the attractions of this par 72 course.
Is there anything else worth mentioning?
The famous university town of Oxford is only 15 minutes drive from Benson. Tour buses run from Oxford to Woodstock and Blenheim Palace.
Eating and Drinking in Wallingford
Back to topBest places to drink an aperitif?
The Town Arms, Wallingford High Street
Budget restaurant
The Boathouse
Address: The Old Bridge, Wallingford
Atmosphere: Waterside pub
Cuisine: Pub grub
Opening Hours: Food served 12 - 7pm
Upmarket restaurant
The George Hotel
Address: High Street, Wallingford
Atmosphere: 16th Century Coaching Inn & restaurant
Opening Hours: Lunchtime & evening meals
Shopping in Wallingford
Back to topSupermarket
Waitrose
1 St Martin's Street, Wallingford
Opening Hours: 08:30 - 19:00 (Monday, Tuesday, Saturday), 08:30 - 20:00 (Wednesday & Thursday), 08:30 - 21:00 (Friday), 10:00 - 16:00 (Sunday)
Practicalities at Wallingford
Back to topMooring
You can moor at the town quay just north of the bridge (free during the day, charge for overnight). There are also several spots along the river bank to the north of the town, which offer a peaceful spot for the night. Finally, there is also a marina about 0.5 mile south of the bridge.
Is there a bank?
Lloyds TSB, 4 Market Place, Wallingford, Nat West, 82 High St, Wallingford
Is there an ATM?
Yes
Is there a post office?
St Laurence Hall, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8HA
Is there a doctor?
Mill Stream Surgery, Benson, Wallingford, Oxon OX10 6RL Tel: 01491 838286. www.millstreamsurgery.nhs.uk
Is there a dentist?
Wallingford House Dental Practice, High St, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 0BW Tel: 01491 837361
Is there a pharmacy?
Lloyds Pharmacy, 20-21 Market Place, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 0AD Tel: 01491 836206
Is there a taxi company here?
Hills Taxis, Station Road, Wallingford Tel: 01491 837 022
Can I get internet access here?
Wallingford Library, High Street, Wallingford. Tel: 01491 837395. The library gets quite busy but you can phone ahead to reserve a 1 hr slot if you wish.
