Alnwick vs Wallingford

Alnwick and Wallingford are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Alnwick is known for its historic castle and gardens, while Wallingford boasts a picturesque riverside setting and a thriving community spirit.

General information

Alnwick
Wallingford
Introduction :
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Northumberland, Alnwick is a charming market town known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Home to the iconic Alnwick Castle, which dates back to the 11th century, the town offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. With a bustling market square, quaint shops, and friendly locals, Alnwick is a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of authentic English countryside living.
Introduction :
Wallingford, a historic market town in Oxfordshire, is nestled along the River Thames and boasts a rich heritage dating back to the Saxon era. With its charming streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and traditional pubs, Wallingford offers a quintessential English experience. Visitors can explore the town's medieval architecture, including the iconic Wallingford Castle ruins, and enjoy the vibrant market held weekly in the town square. With its picturesque setting and welcoming community, Wallingford is a must-visit destination in the UK.

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Advantages :
  • Alnwick Castle and Gardens offer a unique tourist attraction.
  • Low crime rate provides a safe environment for residents.
  • Excellent schools and educational facilities for families.
  • Beautiful countryside surroundings ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Accessible location with good transport links to nearby cities.
Advantages :
  • Wallingford has a low crime rate, making it a safe town.
  • The town offers excellent educational facilities for residents.
  • Wallingford is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • The town has a strong sense of community, with plenty of local events.
  • Wallingford is conveniently located with good access to major transport links.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to nearby towns
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural events
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to nearby towns
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural events
Points of interest :
Alnwick is a charming market town in Northumberland known for its historic Alnwick Castle, featured in Harry Potter films. The Alnwick Garden is a popular attraction with its stunning landscaped grounds and water features. The town also boasts a bustling market square, traditional pubs, and independent shops. Alnwick is surrounded by picturesque countryside, including the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Alnwick Moor. The town has a rich history dating back to medieval times, with historic buildings like St. Michael's Church and Bailiffgate Museum showcasing its heritage. Alnwick is a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers.
Points of interest :
Wallingford is a charming market town in Oxfordshire, known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings. Key points of interest include the historic Wallingford Castle ruins, the beautiful River Thames offering opportunities for boating and riverside walks, the Wallingford Museum showcasing the town's heritage, the annual Bunkfest music and beer festival, and the Agatha Christie Trail highlighting locations linked to the famous author. Visitors can also explore the traditional market square, browse the independent shops and cafes, and enjoy the stunning views from the nearby Castle Gardens.


Facts and figures

Alnwick
Wallingford
Type : Town.
Alnwick is a historic market town in Northumberland, known for its medieval castle and bustling market square. With a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, it offers a vibrant town atmosphere.
Type : Town.
Wallingford is a historic market town in the UK, known for its charming streets, local shops, and vibrant community. With a range of amenities and a rich cultural heritage, it offers a quintessential English town experience.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Alnwick is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population figure for this market town in the UK.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Wallingford is unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Alnwick is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult local real estate listings or agencies for the most up-to-date information on property prices in the area.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Wallingford vary depending on the size, location, and condition of the property. It is recommended to consult with local real estate agents or websites for current market trends.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Alnwick has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. The town generally remains safe, but residents are advised to take normal precautions to ensure their safety.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Wallingford has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. The town generally maintains a safe environment, but residents should still take standard precautions to ensure their safety.
🟢 Education : Good.
Alnwick offers a good education system with a range of schools providing quality teaching and resources. The town has a strong focus on academic achievement and extracurricular activities for students.
🟢 Education : Good.
Wallingford has a strong education system with well-performing schools and a variety of educational opportunities for students. The town is known for its supportive community and high academic standards.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Alnwick offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a range of businesses in the town center and surrounding areas. While not as bustling as major cities, there are opportunities for various skill sets.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Wallingford offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and retail stores providing job options. Additionally, residents can easily commute to nearby cities like Oxford for more diverse employment prospects.


Geographical features

Alnwick
Wallingford
Elevation : 82 meters
Alnwick is situated at an elevation of approximately 82 meters above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Elevation : 240 feet
Wallingford's elevation above sea level is approximately 240 feet, providing a picturesque setting for the town and offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Alnwick is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Topology : Hilly and undulating
Wallingford is characterized by its hilly and undulating terrain, offering picturesque views and charming landscapes throughout the area.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Alnwick is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Northumberland, approximately 5 miles from the nearest coast at Alnmouth on the North Sea.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Wallingford is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Oxfordshire, England, along the River Thames. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away to the south on the English Channel.
🟢 River : Yes.
Alnwick has the River Aln running through it, providing a picturesque feature for residents and visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
🟢 River : Yes.
Wallingford has the River Thames flowing through it, providing a picturesque waterfront and opportunities for leisure activities such as boating and riverside walks.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Alnwick is not known to have a lake within the town itself. However, the town is located near several lakes in Northumberland, such as Kielder Water and Derwent Reservoir.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Wallingford is located near the River Thames, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The town also has a nearby reservoir called the Goring Gap, providing additional recreational options.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Alnwick's waterways are primarily natural, with the River Aln running through the town. Information on man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals is not readily available.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Wallingford's waterways are primarily natural, with the River Thames running through the town. There is no definitive information on man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals in the area.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Alnwick has experienced flooding in the past, notably during Storm Desmond in 2015. The River Aln has been known to burst its banks, causing damage to properties in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Wallingford has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Dennis in 2020. The town is situated near the River Thames, making it susceptible to flooding.


Local facilities

Alnwick
Wallingford
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Alnwick has a train station, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. The station offers connections to various destinations, making it a key transportation hub in the area.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Wallingford has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to nearby cities and towns. The station offers regular services on the Great Western Railway line.
Transport links :
Alnwick has good transport links to other areas with the A1 road nearby providing easy access to Newcastle and Edinburgh. The town also has a bus station with regular services to surrounding towns and villages.
Transport links :
Wallingford has good transport links to other areas with the A4074 providing access to Oxford and Reading. The M40 motorway is also easily accessible for travel to London and Birmingham.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Alnwick has several primary schools, including St. Michael's C of E Primary School and Swansfield Park Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their teaching and facilities.
Primary school : .
Wallingford has several primary schools, including St. Nicholas Church of England Primary School and Fir Tree Junior School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their academic performance and student well-being.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Alnwick has one secondary school called The Duchess's Community High School. It has a good reputation and has received positive Ofsted ratings in recent years.
Secondary school : .
Wallingford has one secondary school called Wallingford School. It has a good reputation and has received positive Ofsted observations in recent years.
🟢 College : Yes.
Alnwick has a college called Northumberland College and a 6th form at The Duchess's Community High School. Both institutions offer a range of courses and educational opportunities for students.
🟢 College : Yes.
Wallingford has a college called The Henley College Oxfordshire, which offers a range of A-level and vocational courses. There is also a 6th form at Wallingford School for post-16 education.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Alnwick has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on local attractions, accommodations, and events. Visitors can stop by for maps, brochures, and helpful advice.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Wallingford has a tourist information facility located in the town center, providing visitors with information on local attractions, events, accommodations, and more to enhance their experience in the area.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Alnwick has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility for sending and receiving mail and packages.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Wallingford has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and businesses in the area.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Alnwick has a public library that offers a variety of books, resources, and services for residents and visitors to enjoy. It is a valuable community resource for learning and leisure.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Wallingford has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the local community. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Alnwick has a police station located in the town, providing law enforcement services and ensuring public safety for residents and visitors.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Wallingford has a police station located in the town, providing law enforcement services and ensuring public safety for residents and visitors.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Alnwick has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the town and surrounding areas. Residents have access to medical care and facilities within the local community.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Wallingford has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas. This facility ensures access to essential medical care for the community.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Alnwick has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in need of urgent medical attention.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Wallingford has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the town and surrounding areas.


When choosing between Alnwick and Wallingford, consider whether you prefer a focus on history and heritage or a scenic riverside location. Both towns offer a welcoming atmosphere and a range of amenities, making either a great choice for those seeking a quintessential market town experience.