Walking the 1556 boundaries of Abingdon

New Year’s Day 2025, 11am

Market Place

Abingdon’s ancient custom of “Beating the Bounds”, or walking the boundaries, was laid down in the Charter of Incorporation 1556.  In past times, Beating the Bounds was a special occasion with the Town Chamberlain obliged to swim the River Thames.  Cakes and ale or tea was distributed to residents and there would be a feast for town dignitaries.

Join us on New Year’s Day to retrace their steps (as far as modern developments allow) and learn a little bit of the history of the Charter.  The walk will be led by a former Town Councillor, accompanied by a Town Crier

Duration approx. 2 hours

No swimming will be involved – but please dress for the weather with sturdy, mud-proof footwear