Things To Do
in Thame

Thame is a charming market town located in Oxfordshire, England, known for its rich history and picturesque settings. With its beautiful medieval architecture, vibrant market square, and a range of shops and eateries, it draws visitors looking for a quintessential English experience. The town hosts several annual events, including the Thame Food Festival and the Thame Carnival, which showcase local culture and community spirit.

Its proximity to the picturesque Chiltern Hills makes it an attractive destination for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Thame
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Thame Museum to learn about the town's history, followed by a stroll through the historic market square.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café and then visit the St. Mary’s Church, known for its stunning architecture, followed by a walk in the nearby Elms Park.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional pub before catching a local performance at the Players Theatre.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local bakery, then head out to the Thame Farmers' Market to explore local produce and crafts.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely hike along the Thame River, enjoying the scenic countryside views, and pack a picnic to enjoy by the river.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a gourmet restaurant, followed by a nightcap at a local wine bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Cup of coffee$3-$5
🍕Takeaway pizza$10-$15
🛒Groceries for a week$50-$75
🚌Local bus fare$2-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming historical architecture and atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural events and local festivals.
  • Close proximity to beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent.

Places to Visit in Thame

Visit one of these nice places.

Thame Market Square

The heart of the town, featuring beautiful historic buildings and a vibrant atmosphere.

St. Mary’s Church

A stunning example of medieval architecture, perfect for capturing intricate details.

Elms Park

A picturesque park with scenic views, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Thame

Thame offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, from traditional English fare to modern gourmet cuisine.

Thame Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Thame Pudding

A classic dessert made with local ingredients, often served with custard.

Must-Try!

Cider from Chiltern Hills

Locally produced cider known for its crisp flavor, perfect for pairing with meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Thame Farmers' Market

Held on the second Saturday of every month, offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Thame experiences a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, averaging around 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F), with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and are characterized by rain, making it essential to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

It is important to respect queues, as cutting in line is frowned upon.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in conversations.

Respect for Local Customs

Be mindful of local traditions and customs, particularly during events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Thame is considered a safe town, with low crime rates. Still, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 for urgent assistance.

Tipping in Thame

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and sunny, ideal for exploring markets and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler weather brings beautiful fall colors, great for photography and countryside walks.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, perfect for enjoying cozy pubs and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Thame at Night

Thame's nightlife is relatively quiet but offers a cozy atmosphere with local pubs and a few bars. The Cross Keys and The Greyhound are popular spots where locals gather for drinks and socializing. Occasionally, there are live music events and pub quizzes that add to the lively atmosphere, making it a pleasant experience for those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Hiking in Thame

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chiltern Hills

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering numerous trails with scenic views.

The Thame Greenway

A well-marked path that runs alongside the River Thame, ideal for walking and cycling.

Airports

How to reach Thame by plane.

London Heathrow Airport

Approx. 40 miles from Thame, it is the nearest major international airport, offering connections to numerous global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Thame is a highly walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and amenities located within a short distance from the town center. The pedestrian-friendly streets and well-maintained paths make it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to enjoy the local scenery and atmosphere at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Thame has a significant number of families who enjoy the town's community-oriented environment and local schools.

Retirees

The town attracts retirees looking for a peaceful lifestyle with access to amenities and nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely played and supported in Thame, with local clubs offering matches and community involvement.

Cricket

Cricket is a popular sport in the area, with local teams playing in picturesque settings during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Thame is generally light, as it is a small town. However, the A418 road can experience congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes local buses that connect Thame to nearby towns and cities, and there are regular services to Oxford and Aylesbury.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Thame.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Thame offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals; ask staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Thame is accessible through the National Health Service (NHS). There are local clinics and a hospital in nearby towns, providing a range of medical services. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses incurred during their stay.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide