Wargrave from Rocque's map of Berkshire, 1761
During the Domesday Survey, Wargrave was held by Edith, wife of Edward the Confessor. His mother, Emma, wife of Canute, is believed to have lived in the town. It remained a Royal domain until 1189 when Richard I sold it to the Bishop of Winchester. The remains of the royal palace stood in Church street until demolished in 1827.
Wargrave Parish Church.
The present building has few medieval features but is believed to date to the late 12th century. It was severely damaged by fire in 1914 by the Suffragettes. The subsequent rebuilding followed as closely as possible the old plans.
The town is situated on the eastern bank of the Thames, at a point where a ferry crossed the river.
'The Ferry' from H R Robertson's Life on the Upper Thames
Wargrave ferry, 2001
In 2001 the census recorded 3,840 people living in 1632 houses in Wargrave
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