Premier Inn Abingdon

Yes, Abingdon is definitely worth visiting, especially if you're exploring Oxfordshire or looking for a peaceful riverside town with history. It’s one of those places where you can spend a relaxing afternoon strolling along the Thames, visiting historic landmarks like Abingdon Abbey or grabbing lunch in a traditional pub. The town also has several green spaces, riverside parks and a mix of quirky independent shops. It’s ideal for a short break, especially if you're coming from Oxford, which is just a few miles away.

Abingdon claims to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in England, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Iron Age and Roman times. It was a significant religious centre during the medieval period thanks to Abingdon Abbey, one of the most important Benedictine monasteries in the country before the Dissolution. While other towns like Colchester and Amesbury also lay claim to being England’s oldest, Abingdon’s long, uninterrupted history certainly puts it high on the list.

Abingdon is known for its rich history and riverside setting, as well as the remains of Abingdon Abbey, which played a central role in the town's early development. It’s also known for the unique tradition of bun-throwing from the County Hall – where local dignitaries throw thousands of buns into the crowd to mark royal celebrations. The town has long associations with brewing, MG cars (which were built here for decades), and is well known for its historic architecture and riverside walks.

Abingdon is a moderately sized market town. It’s larger than a village, but it still feels very walkable and easy to get around. It has a compact town centre with a mix of shops, cafes and historic buildings, plus parks and riverside paths that give it a more laid-back pace. It’s not tiny, but it doesn’t have the hustle of a city either – ideal if you're looking for somewhere that balances convenience with calm surroundings.