Routes and Connections by Road, River and Path
The Guildhall, Roysse Court, Bridge Street, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 3HU
The historic Guildhall is hosting an eclectic selection of displays about Abingdon’s history as the hub of a network of routes by land and water. They have been created by local groups and schools and will include fascinating old photos and maps, intriguing information and some surprising memorabilia. Discover the route of the canal, the history of the Causeway, and when the A34 ran along Broad Street!
Find out about the history of telecoms in Abingdon – and how a talking newspaper for the visually impaired is produced.
For young families there will be a “Brio” play area and a chance to enter a competition to win the trainset being used.
The Guildhall is one of Abingdon's most important historic buildings and on Saturday, visitors will also be able to explore some of its historic rooms. The oldest part is the medieval L-shaped Hospital of St John, originally part of the Abbey complex, probably dating from the 12th century, but much altered over the years. The part facing St Nicholas’ Church was the hospital chapel and the southern wing became the schoolroom for John Roysse’s grammar school, established in 1563, which remained there till Victorian times and is the venue for our exhibition.
Visitors can see the Old Magistrates Court which still has the bench and dock which were in use till the late 20thC; climb the 18thC carved staircase to the Council Chamber, with its important historical portraits and continue to the Bear Room to discover its intriguing history.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 14 September:
- 10.00 - 16.00 Exhibition, children's activity and self-guided visit to historic Guildhall rooms
- Sunday 15 September:
- 10.00 - 16.00 Exhibition and children's activity
Location & directions
The Guildhall, Roysse Court, Bridge Street, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 3HU
- Directions:
- Call in at our Market Place information stall to get directions to this and other Heritage Weekend venues
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Sadly, since this is a listed building, with no lift, only the exhibition area and the Magistrates Court are accessible to those who can’t manage stairs.
