Located in Oxford county is the market town of Wantage. Wantage is located in the area of Oxfordshire that is referred to as Vale of White Horse because of its excellent horse racing lands. The town started off its life as a small Roman settlement. While its settlement history is unchallenged there is a wide variety of disagreement over the origin of its name. The town, however, is probably best known for being the birth place of King Alfred the Great in the ninth century.
Probably one of the most historic churches in town is the Parish Church of Saints Peter and Paul. The building dates back to the 1300s and has served as the parish church since the 1800s. While this is a Church of England church, it celebrates the Catholic tradition and has since the 1800s. The architecture is absolutely wonderful and is a must stop during your stay. Stop in for a visit or to say a quick prayer, the church is open for both daily.
An interesting place to stop while you are visiting Wantage is the Vale and Downland museum. This museum is located in a converted 17th century cloth merchant house. The architecture of the house is historical and is a great way to see how these types of homes were built back in the 1600s. There is of course an extension added on to the back of the house to accommodate all the rooms. Here you can see many different artifacts that cover geology, archaeology, social history, and natural history. There are many interesting objects that also reflect the Vale of White Horse area today. Wander through the main gallery and the displays that tell you about the town's history. If you live in or around the area, be sure to come back as these displays change throughout the year. There is also a children's discovery area of the house where kids can get hands on with some of the exhibits. Here they can learn more about what Wantage has to offer. If you plan on being in the area a while, hold on to your ticket as it provides a full years admittance to the museums main areas.
Located just outside of Wantage is the Didcot Railway Center. Here you can learn about the Great Western Railway. The center is based around an old engine shed and there has been a depot recently added. It contains the largest collection of Great Western steam locomotives, wagons, and carriages in Britain. On Steam days and other special days you can enjoy a ride on one of these great old fashioned "steamies". For the railway enthusiast it's a great way to spend the day.
Also located outside of Wantage is Farmer Gow's. Here you and your family can get down and dirty with the farm. This "hands-on" farm allows you and the kids to collect eggs, bottle feed a lamb or even walk a ferret. It's fun for the entire family.
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