7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Abingdon

Abingdon, nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire, is a charming historical market town that offers digital nomads a serene base with easy access to a variety of weekend getaways. Whether you're looking for a bustling city break, a tranquil retreat in the countryside, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that cater to a range of interests and are easily accessible from Abingdon.

Oxford

Just a stone's throw away from Abingdon, Oxford is a must-visit for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Home to the prestigious University of Oxford, you can spend your weekend wandering through the historic college quads, visiting museums like the Ashmolean, and punting along the River Cherwell. The city's bustling covered market is also a great spot to explore, offering a variety of local crafts and delicious food.

How to Get There: Oxford is a short bus ride away from Abingdon, with frequent services running throughout the day. Alternatively, you can cycle along the scenic Thames Path.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to climb the Carfax Tower for a panoramic view of the city's dreaming spires.

Where to Stay: The Old Bank Hotel offers a luxurious stay with views of the city's famous landmarks, while the quirky Malmaison Oxford provides a unique experience in a converted Victorian prison.

Where to Eat: The Eagle and Child, famous for being a meeting place of the Inklings literary group, including C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, offers a cozy atmosphere and traditional pub fare.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a picturesque region known for its rolling hills, quaint villages, and honey-colored stone cottages. Spend your weekend exploring charming towns like Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold, or take a hike along the Cotswold Way to enjoy the stunning landscapes. Antique shops, local art galleries, and traditional pubs dot the area, making it a perfect escape for those seeking a slower pace of life.

How to Get There: The Cotswolds can be reached by car or bus from Abingdon, with the journey taking around an hour.

Travel Tip: Visit the Cotswold Lavender Farm near Snowshill when the lavender is in bloom for a truly Instagram-worthy experience.

Where to Stay: The Swan Hotel in Bibury offers a charming riverside setting, while the Lygon Arms in Broadway boasts a spa for ultimate relaxation.

Where to Eat: The Wild Rabbit in Kingham is a modern British inn with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Henley-on-Thames

Renowned for its annual Royal Regatta, Henley-on-Thames is a delightful riverside town perfect for a leisurely weekend. Stroll along the Thames Path, visit the River and Rowing Museum, and enjoy the town's boutique shops and galleries. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a boat and take to the water yourself, or simply relax in one of the many riverside cafes and watch the world go by.

How to Get There: Henley-on-Thames is accessible by train from Didcot Parkway, which is a short bus ride from Abingdon. The whole journey can take around an hour.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of Henley's many festivals, such as the Henley Festival or the Henley Literary Festival.

Where to Stay: The Hotel du Vin offers a luxurious stay with an excellent bistro, while The Relais Henley provides a historic riverside setting.

Where to Eat: The Crooked Billet in nearby Stoke Row is a cozy pub with a reputation for excellent British cuisine and a warm welcome.

Waddesdon Manor

For a taste of the opulent, visit Waddesdon Manor, a stunning French Renaissance-style chateau built by the Rothschild family. The manor house is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and offers a collection of fine art and antiques. Special events and exhibitions are held throughout the year, making it a culturally enriching destination for any weekend.

How to Get There: Waddesdon Manor is best reached by car from Abingdon, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes.

Travel Tip: Check out the wine cellars for a glimpse into the Rothschild's legendary wine collection.

Where to Stay: The Five Arrows Hotel, located at the gates of the manor, offers boutique rooms and a high-quality restaurant.

Where to Eat: The Manor Restaurant provides an elegant dining experience with dishes crafted from estate-grown produce.

Uffington White Horse

For an unusual and off-the-beaten-path destination, the ancient Uffington White Horse is a prehistoric hill figure carved into the chalk hillside of the Berkshire Downs. This enigmatic landmark, along with the nearby Uffington Castle and Dragon Hill, is steeped in myth and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It's an ideal spot for a day of hiking and picnicking in an area rich with history and natural beauty.

How to Get There: The Uffington White Horse is best accessed by car, with the drive from Abingdon taking around 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Bring a kite on a windy day to take advantage of the open hilltops and enjoy some traditional fun with stunning scenery.

Where to Stay: The nearby town of Wantage has several cozy B&Bs, such as The Bear Hotel, which offers comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere.

Where to Eat: The White Horse Inn in Woolstone is a charming country pub with a reputation for hearty meals and local ales.

Avebury

Avebury is a lesser-known but equally fascinating Neolithic site compared to its famous neighbor, Stonehenge. The village is encircled by a vast stone circle, the largest in Europe, which you can wander around freely. The nearby Avebury Manor and gardens provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited the area. It's a peaceful and intriguing place to spend a weekend, especially for those interested in ancient history and archaeology.

How to Get There: Avebury is accessible by car from Abingdon, with the journey taking just over an hour.

Travel Tip: Visit the Alexander Keiller Museum to learn more about the history and significance of the Avebury stones.

Where to Stay: The Red Lion Inn, located within the stone circle, offers a unique place to stay with comfortable rooms and a traditional pub.

Where to Eat: The Avebury Lodge serves delicious homemade cakes and light lunches, perfect for refueling after exploring the stones.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a charming market town that offers a cultural feast for literature and theater enthusiasts. Visit the bard's birthplace, catch a performance by the Royal Shakespeare Company, and take a leisurely cruise along the River Avon. The town's Tudor architecture and vibrant arts scene make it a delightful destination for a weekend of exploration and inspiration.

How to Get There: Stratford-upon-Avon can be reached by train from Oxford, which is a short bus ride from Abingdon. The journey typically takes around 2 hours.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, book a behind-the-scenes tour of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Where to Stay: The Arden Hotel offers a luxurious stay directly opposite the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, with some rooms offering views of the river.

Where to Eat: The Opposition, or "The Oppo," is a cozy bistro in the heart of the town, known for its friendly service and delicious European dishes.