Things To Do
Abingdon-on-Thames has lots to do at all times of year. There are activities by and on the Thames, fascinating buildings and history, charming gardens and parkland.
Here is a run through a normal year. Into 2021 life is very diffferent with health and safety considerations affecting everything. There was no Extravaganza and parade or MG rally. Markets are open and have good food and whatever is authorised by tier level and please wear a mask and respect distance fro traders as well as other shoppers - our markets and shops have very good deals.
The town diary includes online activities you can join such as a monthly general knowledge quiz which welcomes teams or part teams.
The Abbey Cinema is at Guildhall and has had £5 deals in school hoildays with all the latest films. Social distance and safety is a priority. www.theabbey.ac is open day and evening whenever they are allowed to. Other events such as craft fairs are hosted at Guildhall and it is the cinema which takes party bookings.
There are two cinemas, Amey Theatre has theatre link ups, travelling film festivals and shows that complement the films at Abbey Close. The town has an active film society and other screenings suitable for young or old. All offers are when the current restrictions are cleared.
Abingdon's ATOM Science Festival normally runs in mid March and has moved to June. This is a superb festival with nationally-known speakers. The town is a hub for physics, astronomy and many other scientific disciplines and the ATOM Science Society is involved in co-ordinating the events programme with experts.
Classical music the Maestro conducting masterclass in March links in with a competitive music festival in early May. Abingdon Air and Ccountry Show and Abingdon Jazz Festival is mid May.
Markets, festivals and events happen throughout the summer and markets continue all winter even in poor weather, Please look at the diary regularly particularly for the March to October programme. Our guides, information sheets and maps will help you plan your activities while you are visiting the town.
Rverside walks from a network of paths and the national trail on the doorstep are relaxing at all times of year. There are led walks on two Tuesdays and two Thursdays each month, normally second and fourth, gathering before 10.30 am on Market Place.. This year it is essential to register well in advance for these walks so that leaders and social distance measures can be planned.
The water splash park and heated outdoor pool are open every late Spring and Summer until early September with a picnic area and somewhere for children to play nearby. An indoor leisure centre and outdoor sports and athletics facilities of international sports standard attract people from far afield.
Please see the diary.
Monday is market day each week and Farmers' special markets are on each third Friday. The markets are able to continue, selling fresh produce and essential foods, during lock down measures.
See the Civic Society website www.friendsofabingdon.org.uk for future events in the Abbey buildings. They have also designed some enjoyable observation trails.
