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Places to stay in Abingdon
One of Britain's oldest towns, Abingdon in the county of Oxfordshire developed around the gates of an abbey founded in 675. At the time of the Dissolution of the Monasteries ordered by Henry VIII Abingdon Abbey was 6th richest abbey in the land. Picturesque County Hall dominates the Market Place. Noted almshouses flank 13th-century St.Helen's Church. Banks of the Thames lined with lovely old properties. Two fine bridges spanning the Thames and the River Ock now listed as ancient monuments. There are delightful riverside walks with the river being a focal point for recreational activities such as boating and fishing. From the comfort of a pleasure cruiser visitors can enjoy splendid river-scapes, river wildlife and good views of the town. In medieval times the town prospered from the wool trade but in recent times the fortunes of the town have been dependent on the car industry. Printing and brewing play a major part in the town's economy along with other hi-tech industries. In the pleasant Oxfordshire countryside surrounding the town farms and agriculture continue to flourish. Hotels, inns and restaurants are plentiful. This handsome town has much to interest and excite the visitor. It makes an ideal base from which to explore rural Oxfordshire.
