Wallingford a History

The town of Wallingford in Oxfordshire has a rich and fascinating history.

Historically a part of Berkshire, Wallingford's position on the River Thames has meant that it has been a strategically important crossing point for centuries.

The place has been fortified since at least the Saxon times, but it was during the medieval period that Wallingford was involved in a number of important events in British history. The Normans built Wallingford Castle soon after the conquest and it became a key strategic base for Empress Matilda during the civil war of the twelfth century.

It would also play a key part in another civil war centuries later as a Royalist stronghold against the Parliamentarians and Oliver Cromwell would later order the destruction of the castle.

Today, Wallingford remains a prosperous and lively town.

Wallingford: A History charts the history of this fascinating town in the Oxfordshire countryside