Meaning: the ford of the people of Wealh .

Ancient earth ramparts and slight traces of a former castle exist in this little River Thames town. The 17th century town hall is mounted on stone pillars, and a fine old 14th century arch bridge spans the river. Angies Almshouse dates from 1681. St Leonard’s Church still displays some Norman work in spite of having been altered in 1850. St Peter’s Church was rebuilt in 1860 and carries a curious openwork spire designed by Sir Robert Taylor in 1777. Calleve House is a notable example of the many Georgian buildings to be seen in the High Street and Thames Street. St Luciers may be of Elizabethan origin .

The site has been occupied by Romano-British people. It was a fortified town before the Norman conquest, and though burned by Sweyn in 1006, was the most important borough in Berkshire at the time of the Doomsday Survey. The town suffered greatly from the Black Death, and its decline was accelerated by the building, in the early 15th century, of two bridges near Abingdon, which diverted the main road between London and Gloucester from Wallingford. The earliest Charters were given by Henry I and Henry II, the latter confirming the ancient privileges of the borough. These Charters were confirmed and enlarged by Henry III in 1267 and by Philip and Mary in 1557-8. The governing Charter until 1835 was given by Charles II in 1663. Wallingford Castle was one of the last fortresses to hold out for Charles I. During the Commonwealth it was demolished by order of the government. The church of St. Leonard’s retains some Norman work. The ancient castle has left only its mound and earthworks, and other works may be traced surrounding the town on the landward side .

Wallingford is famous in Civil Engineering circles for its hydraulic research.