Wantage in the Vale of the White Horse, Oxfordshire, England, the Birthplace of King Alfred the Great
Wantage is a civil parish and market town that used to be a part of Berkshire County. At present, however, it is now part of the Vale of the White Horse, Oxfordshire, England. The town is located at the foot of the Berkshire Downs ridge along Letcombe Brook. The other towns close to it are Abingdon (8 miles), Didcot (10 miles), Oxford (15 miles and Newbury (14 miles). One of its claim to fame is that King Alfred the Great was born here in the 9th Century.
Food, Shopping and Accommodation in Wantage
Dining out in Wantage is an exciting experience. The delicious offerings visitors can choose from start with home-made traditional pub meals, authentic Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, and inspiring gourmet fusions for fine dining or even for cheap eats. There is a wide selection of cafes, pubs, sandwich shops and restaurant, all within easy reach from the town centre, where visitors can get good value for money.
With regards to shopping, this market town does not disappoint. There is a good selection of national brands as well as independent shops around the marketplace. Meanwhile, supermarkets and high street brands are found at King’s Park. Also, weekly markets are held every Wednesday and Saturday and the Farmers Market every last Saturday of the month.
Things to See and Do in Wantage
As to things to do in Wantage, here are some suggestions. Visit the Dale and Downland Museum, follow a poetry at Betjeman Millennium Park, tour the Wessex Flour Mill. Also, visit the town’s historic sites and architectural treasures including the statue of King Alfred, and enjoy the great outdoors by walking or cycling along the numerous trails in and around town.
The town has a very strong link to the past and visiting this market town is a great way to start a journey to England's historic past.