Once on the busy coaching route to London, Dorchester is now a peaceful village standing at the confluence of the rivers Thames and Thame.

Famous for its 12th-century abbey, which is one of the finest concert venues in Oxfordshire, the village has some fine thatched cottages, timbered houses, former coaching inns and antiques shops.

Further afield, there are footpaths which lead to the River Thames and the historic Wittenham Clumps.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Dorchester Abbey and Museum: The Abbey is open all year, 8am to 6pm and entry is free. There is a small museum in the grounds — the Old School Room is open from April 7 to September 3, 2pm to 5pm, daily, free entry. For more information, visit the website: www.dorchester-abbey.org.uk

USEFUL INFORMATION

Dorchester on Thames Parish Council: The Pigeons, High Street, call 01865 340759, or visit the website: www.dorchester-on-thames.co.uk

Abbey Sports Centre: Green Furlong, Berinsfield. 01865 341035.

Post office: 14 High Street.

Newspapers: Oxford Mail, daily, 40p, The Oxford Times, every Thursday, 80p. Websites: www.oxfordmail.co.uk / www.theoxfordtimes.co.uk