Abingdon

Abingdon, town in Oxfordshire, south-central England. It is the administrative centre of the Vale of the White Horse district. Abingdon lies on the River Thames 10 km (6 mi) south of and downstream from Oxford, and was once the market town of the surrounding agricultural area. It has been part of the county of Oxfordshire since boundary changes in 1974 removed it from Berkshire.

Abingdon has a diverse and growing economy. The town's position on the A34 trunk road, and between the M4 and M40 motorways, has facilitated its development as a centre of nationwide wholesale distribution. Historically, Abingdon was synonymous with the manufacture of MG sports cars until the company's closure in 1982. There are now mixed light industries, as well as the manufacture of medical and electronic equipment. Many residents work in Oxford.

Notable local buildings include the County Hall (1677-1682), designed by Christopher Kempster and reputed to be among the finest county halls in Britain, and the 16th-century Christ's Hospital. The Atomic Research Establishment is situated nearby in Harwell. There is a college of further education. Two notable independent schools are Radley College outside the town and Abingdon School, one of England's oldest independent schools. St Edmund of Abingdon was born in the town.

Abingdon was first settled in Saxon times, developing around a powerful 7th-century Benedictine monastery. It was closed after the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538, although the 15th-century gateway and 14th-century Checker (abbey exchequer) remain. Historically, the town and monastery prospered as an important centre of the wool trade. Population 35,234 (1991).