Wallingford Emerges as a Must-Visit Destination for Agatha Christie Fans Everywhere

Wallingford has become an unexpected hotspot for fans of mystery literature, thanks to the unveiling of a statue dedicated to the legendary author Agatha Christie. Since its installation last year, the statue, crafted by sculptor Ben Twiston-Davies, has drawn crowds of visitors eager to connect with the literary icon in a unique way. Situated on a bench overlooking Kinecroft, the statue offers a picturesque view that enhances the experience for those who come to pay homage. According to Judy Dewey, the curator of the Wallingford Museum, the response to the statue has been overwhelmingly positive. "We can watch the almost continuous daily flow of people who come to visit her, sit with her, photograph themselves with her, and touch her and even tuck a flower or two in her hand," she noted. The statue has become a beloved fixture in the community, so much so that even local dogs have been reported trying to engage with the artwork — one even offered a stick to be thrown. The impact of the statue on museum attendance has been significant. Dewey reported a remarkable 25% increase in visitors this season compared to previous years, a trend that began sharply after the statue's unveiling in September. While she acknowledges that it’s difficult to attribute the rise solely to the statue, the correlation is hard to ignore. The museum has also noted an influx of international visitors and an increase in requests for guided tours, indicating that interest in Agatha Christie is alive and well. In addition to the statue, the museum features a new painting by local artist Susan Ray, which depicts 'Agatha' on her bench, surrounded by scenes inspired by her literary works. The painting not only captures the essence of Christie's storytelling but also includes a quiz for visitors, making the experience more interactive and engaging. Adding to the museum's allure, a historical artifact has been incorporated into the exhibition: Dame Agatha's pestle and mortar, which she used during her nursing days in World War One. Donated by local residents John Summers and Tara Kennedy, this item holds significance as it is believed to reflect the genesis of Christie's fascination with poisons and potions, elements that frequently appeared in her novels. Summers expressed his delight in seeing the artifact housed at the Wallingford Museum, calling it a "connecting part of the bigger story" of Christie's life and work. With these developments, Wallingford has firmly established itself as a pilgrimage site for Christie enthusiasts, blending literary history with community pride. As visitors continue to flock to see the statue and explore the museum's offerings, it is clear that Agatha Christie’s legacy is as vibrant as ever, enriching both locals and travelers alike.