If you ever find yourself strolling along the River Thames, just a short drive south of Oxford, you might stumble across a gem of a town called Abingdon-on-Thames.

Now, it might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think about idyllic living in England, but for those who know it well, Abingdon has a lot to boast about.

With its centuries of history, riverside charm, and strong sense of community, it’s one of those places that quietly captures your heart. Let’s dive into six genuinely good reasons why living in Abingdon-on-Thames is, well, really quite lovely.

1. The River Thames Is Basically Your Backyard

Let’s start with the obvious one. The River Thames winds its way gracefully past the town, and it’s not just there for the view. The riverside path is perfect for lazy afternoon walks, morning jogs, or cycling alongside the water. On a warm day, you’ll find families picnicking by the riverbanks, paddleboarders gliding past, or people just sitting with a good book watching the ducks.

There’s something inherently calming about having a river nearby, and in Abingdon, it’s part of the everyday landscape. Whether you’re walking the dog or meeting friends for a drink at The Nags Head (a riverside pub with arguably one of the best beer gardens in Oxfordshire), the Thames is always there as a backdrop, adding to the town’s peaceful atmosphere.

2. A Real Sense of Community (The Kind That’s Hard to Find Nowadays)

One of the first things people notice when they move to Abingdon is how friendly and welcoming everyone is. It’s the kind of place where people still say hello to strangers, and neighbours genuinely know each other’s names. Community spirit isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s lived out daily.

From the bustling local markets in the town square (every Monday, rain or shine), to town events like the annual Bun Throwing tradition (yes, it’s a real thing—royal celebrations are marked by officials hurling buns from the roof of the County Hall!), Abingdon knows how to bring people together.

There are countless clubs, societies, and volunteering opportunities, and whether you’ve lived here for three months or three decades, you’ll find ways to get involved and feel part of something.

3. It’s Packed with History Without Being Stuck in the Past

Abingdon claims to be the oldest continuously inhabited town in England—and whether or not that’s 100% provable, you can certainly feel the history as you walk around. The town centre is dotted with charming old buildings, including the iconic County Hall Museum, a 17th-century Baroque-style building that dominates the market square.

Then there’s the old Abbey, or what remains of it, surrounded by Abbey Gardens and meadows—a lovely spot for a weekend picnic or peaceful afternoon wander. The town’s past doesn’t feel like it’s gathering dust, though. It’s woven into daily life in a way that gives Abingdon character without weighing it down.

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate it—just someone who enjoys the idea of living somewhere that’s seen centuries of stories unfold.

4. Brilliant Location with the Best of Both Worlds

Let’s be honest, location is everything, and Abingdon gets it just right. You’re close enough to Oxford to benefit from all its culture, shopping, and job opportunities, but far enough away to escape the traffic and tourist crush that can sometimes overwhelm the city.

It’s a perfect spot for commuters, too, with easy access to the A34, and nearby Didcot Parkway gives you fast train links to London. If you’re working in science or tech, you’re in luck—Abingdon is within the orbit of Oxford’s science parks and the Harwell Innovation Campus, making it a popular home base for professionals in those industries.

And let’s not forget the countryside. The rolling hills of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds are just a short drive away, ideal for weekend adventures and country pub lunches.

5. Great Schools and Family-Friendly Vibes

If you’ve got kids, or are thinking about starting a family, Abingdon is a solid choice. The town is home to a number of well-regarded primary and secondary schools, including John Mason School, Fitzharrys School, and the independent Abingdon School, which has been around for centuries and has a strong academic reputation.

But it’s not just about the schools. There’s something about the rhythm of life in Abingdon that’s perfect for raising a family. Playgrounds are everywhere, there are tons of green spaces (like Albert Park or the Abbey Meadows), and the town feels safe and nurturing. You’ll often see groups of parents chatting while their children play or cycling together along the river path—it’s that kind of town.

6. A Food Scene That’s Quietly Impressive

Okay, Abingdon isn’t going to outshine London or Oxford in the foodie stakes, but for a town its size, it punches well above its weight. From quirky cafes like Throwing Buns (yes, named after the local tradition) to excellent local pubs and riverside restaurants, there are plenty of spots to enjoy good food without needing to travel far.

There’s also a growing love for local produce and sustainability here. The town hosts regular farmers’ markets where you can pick up everything from organic veggies to artisan bread and locally brewed beer. Plus, with so many cultures represented in the area, there are some surprising international flavours tucked away—Thai, Indian, Italian, you name it.

And if you want to treat yourself to a fancy dinner or two, Oxford is right up the road with endless dining options.