Eynsham: Land of Medieval Abbots, Monks and Scholars

Come and explore the beautiful Oxfordshire town of Eynsham.
Eynsham was built around one of the most important Medieval Abbeys in the country.
Together we will discover the history of the ancient Abbey site and hear the story of its very first Abbot, trailblazing scholar, St Aelfric, before strolling round the extensive 13th Century fishponds.
We will investigate the attractive Market Square with its fascinating Bartholomew Room, now the Town Museum and the adjacent Church of St Leonard’s with its very unusual Mass Dial.
We will revel in the streets of picturesque houses with their varied architecture and features and learn the origins of the curious street names.
Next we will delve into Eynsham’s trading heritage including the story of Eynsham Wharf and the history of the paper making industry.
We will uncover the town’s significance as a staging post on the old road from London to Wales, (now known as the A40.)
We will hear the amazing story of Eynsham’s Catholic population from its 19th Century origins to its celebrated 20th Century priest, Father John Tolkien, son of the revered fantasy author, not forgetting the eccentric 19th Century Catholic sect, the Catholic Apostolic Church.
Add in accounts of the town’s old farmhouses, traditional Cotswold barns and pubs plus associations with famous people such as radical 18th Century author, William Corbett, children’s author, Penelope Lively and local author and actor, Mollie Harris, once the voice of the village postmistress on the long running radio programme, The Archers, and you have a truly riveting unmissable walk.
I hope to see you there.
TO BOOK: PLEASE NOTE - PLEASE BOOK ONLY IF YOU'RE DEFINITELY COMING.
NB: Payment is by Bank Transfer WHEN BOOKING - £12 to:
Miss J E Richardson
Sort Code 40 09 44
AC no 90231797
Please include your name in the payment reference.
If you cancel I'm afraid this amount is non refundable unless the walk is cancelled so please sign up only if you are certain you will make the event and can pay when booking.

WHERE TO MEET: We will meet in the Market Square in Eynsham, outside the Bartholomew Room (Museum) OX29 4HA at 1.30pm https://what3words.com/handlebar.rear.yell
Eynsham is easily accessible just off the A40 midway between Oxford and Witney. There is a regular bus service (Stagecoach S1 & S1A) that runs from Oxford (George Street) towards Witney & Carterton via Eynsham.
Main picture: Artist's impression of the Medieval Eynsham Abbey