Dorchester on Thames

Dorchester on Thames (also known as Dorchester) is a historic village and civil parish in South Oxfordshire, England. It is situated approximately 9 miles (14 km) southeast of Oxford and 3 miles (5 km) northwest of Wallingford, positioned at the confluence of the River Thame and the River Thames. The village has a long history of habitation, with evidence dating back to prehistoric times and Roman Britain. It gained significant prominence in the 7th century when Birinus, the Apostle to the West Saxons, established a bishopric here in AD 634. Today, it is best known for Dorchester Abbey, a former cathedral and current parish church noted for its Norman and Gothic architecture. The Abbey serves as a major cultural venue, hosting the biennial Dorchester Festival and a year-round programme of classical concerts and choral performances. Due to its location near the Thames Path and the Wittenham Clumps, the village is a frequent base for walking and exploring the surrounding Chilterns and South Oxfordshire countryside.