Walton-on-Thames

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Walton-on-Thames
Population	22,834
OS grid reference
District	Elmbridge
Shire county	Surrey
Country	England
Sovereign state	United Kingdom
Post town	WALTON-ON-THAMES
Postcode district	KT12
Dialling code	01932
UK Parliament	Esher and Walton

Walton-on-Thames is a market town on the River Thames in the Elmbridge borough of Surrey, England. It is situated 15 miles southwest of Central London and is part of the Greater London Urban Area. The town has a population of approximately 22,834.

History

Walton-on-Thames has a rich history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. The name "Walton" is believed to derive from the Old English term "Wealas tun," meaning "farmstead of the Britons." The town was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Waletona."

During the English Civil War, Walton-on-Thames was a site of strategic importance. The town's proximity to the River Thames made it a key location for controlling river traffic.

Geography

Walton-on-Thames is located in the South East region of England. The town is bordered by Weybridge to the west, Hersham to the south, and Sunbury-on-Thames to the north. The River Thames forms the northern boundary of the town.

Economy

The town has a diverse economy with a mix of retail, commercial, and industrial sectors. The Heart Shopping Centre is a major retail hub in the town, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.

Transport

Walton-on-Thames is well-connected by road and rail. The Walton-on-Thames railway station provides regular services to London Waterloo, making it a popular location for commuters. The town is also served by several bus routes, providing connections to nearby towns and villages.

Education

Walton-on-Thames has a range of educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools. Notable schools in the area include Ashley C of E Primary School and Three Rivers Academy.

Landmarks

• St. Mary's Church, Walton-on-Thames: A historic church dating back to the 12th century.
• Cecil Hepworth Playhouse: A community theatre named after the pioneering filmmaker Cecil Hepworth.
• Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre: A cultural venue offering a variety of arts and entertainment events.

Notable Residents

• Julie Andrews: The famous actress and singer was born in Walton-on-Thames.
• Jimmy Page: The legendary guitarist of Led Zeppelin lived in the town during his early years.

Sports and Recreation

Walton-on-Thames offers a range of sports and recreational activities. The town is home to Walton & Hersham F.C., a non-league football club. The Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex provides facilities for swimming, fitness, and other sports.

Twin Towns

Walton-on-Thames is twinned with:

• Walton, Kentucky, United States
• Bourg-de-Péage, France