Amersham vs Hitchin

Amersham and Hitchin are both charming market towns in the UK known for their historic architecture, vibrant local markets, and picturesque surroundings. Each town offers a unique blend of amenities, cultural attractions, and community spirit, making them popular destinations for residents and visitors alike.

General information

Amersham
Hitchin
Introduction :
Amersham is a picturesque market town located in Buckinghamshire, England. With a history dating back to Roman times, the town boasts a charming mix of historic architecture, quaint shops, and traditional pubs. Known for its vibrant market scene and annual events, Amersham offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the quintessential English market town.
Introduction :
Hitchin is a charming market town located in Hertfordshire, England. With a history dating back to the 7th century, Hitchin boasts a picturesque town center filled with historic buildings, independent shops, and a bustling market that dates back to the medieval era. The town is known for its vibrant community spirit, cultural events, and beautiful green spaces, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.

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Advantages :
  • Amersham is a picturesque town with historic architecture and charm. - The town offers excellent schools and educational opportunities for families. - Amersham has low crime rates, making it a safe place to live. - There are plenty of amenities and facilities, including shops, restaurants, and parks. - The town has good transport links, making it easy to commute.
Advantages :
  • Hitchin has excellent transport links to London and other major cities
  • The cost of living in Hitchin is relatively affordable compared to nearby towns
  • Hitchin has low crime rates, making it a safe place to live
  • The town has a range of top-rated schools and educational facilities
  • Hitchin offers a variety of amenities and leisure facilities for residents and visitors alike
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options make commuting difficult. - High cost of living compared to surrounding areas. - Higher crime rates than national average, particularly for theft. - Limited educational opportunities for higher education. - Lack of tourist attractions and amenities compared to nearby towns.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural events
Points of interest :
Amersham is a charming market town known for its historic architecture, including the 17th-century Market Hall. The town is divided into two distinct areas: Old Amersham with its traditional buildings and St. Mary's Church, and Amersham-on-the-Hill with shops, restaurants, and a vibrant community. Visitors can explore the Amersham Museum to learn about the town's history, or take a walk along the picturesque River Misbourne. The town also offers a variety of independent shops, cafes, and pubs for a leisurely day out. Amersham is a popular filming location, with scenes from 'Four Weddings and a Funeral' shot here.
Points of interest :
Hitchin is a charming market town in Hertfordshire, known for its historic buildings, vibrant market, and picturesque streets. Key points of interest include St. Mary's Church, a stunning example of medieval architecture, and the British Schools Museum, offering a unique insight into Victorian education. The town also boasts a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely day out. Hitchin Lavender Farm is a popular attraction during the summer months, where visitors can pick their own lavender. The town's annual Hitchin Festival showcases local talent and cultural events, adding to its appeal.


Facts and figures

Amersham
Hitchin
Type : Town.
Amersham is a historic market town in Buckinghamshire, known for its picturesque old town, vibrant market, and range of independent shops and cafes. It offers a mix of rural charm and urban amenities.
Type : Town.
Hitchin is a historic market town in Hertfordshire, known for its charming streets, bustling market, and vibrant community. With a mix of independent shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, Hitchin offers a lively town atmosphere.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Amersham is not provided in the available data. Further research or official sources may be needed to determine the exact population figure.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Hitchin is not specified in the provided information. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population size of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Amersham is currently unavailable. It is recommended to consult local real estate agents or online property websites for the most up-to-date information on housing prices in the area.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Hitchin is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult local real estate websites or agencies for the most up-to-date information on property prices in the area.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Amersham has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. The town generally maintains a safe environment, but residents should still take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Hitchin has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, the town is considered safe, but residents should still take normal precautions to ensure their safety.
🟢 Education : Good.
Amersham has a strong education system with a range of primary and secondary schools performing well in academic assessments. The town also has access to nearby colleges and universities for further education opportunities.
🟢 Education : Good.
Hitchin has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college offering further education opportunities. The town also has a reputation for high academic standards.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Amersham offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and shops in town. There are also opportunities in nearby cities like London and High Wycombe for those willing to commute.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Hitchin offers a range of employment opportunities with a mix of local businesses, retail shops, and professional services. Additionally, its proximity to major cities like London and Cambridge provides access to a wider job market.


Geographical features

Amersham
Hitchin
Elevation : 525 feet
Amersham has an elevation of approximately 525 feet above sea level, providing residents with scenic views and a slightly cooler climate compared to lower-lying areas.
Elevation : 210 feet
Hitchin has an average elevation of approximately 210 feet above sea level, providing scenic views and a unique geographical setting for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Topology : Hilly
Amersham is situated in the Chiltern Hills, characterized by its hilly terrain and picturesque countryside. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and valleys, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Topology : Hilly and surrounded by countryside
Hitchin is characterized by its hilly terrain and is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering residents and visitors beautiful views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Amersham is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Buckinghamshire, approximately 50 miles away from the nearest coast, which is the English Channel to the south.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Hitchin is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Hertfordshire, approximately 50 miles north of central London and about 70 miles away from the nearest coastline on the east coast of England.
🟢 River : Yes.
Amersham has the River Misbourne flowing through it, providing a picturesque waterway for residents and visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
🟢 River : Yes.
The River Hiz flows through Hitchin, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and outdoor activities, enhancing the town's appeal to residents and visitors alike.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Amersham does not have a lake within the town itself. However, the town is located near several lakes such as the Tring Reservoirs, which are approximately 10 miles away.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Hitchin does not have a lake within the town itself, but there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area. The closest lake is likely to be a short drive away.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Amersham has man-made waterways, including the nearby reservoirs and canals that contribute to the town's scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Hitchin has man-made waterways in the form of the River Hiz, which flows through the town and provides a picturesque feature for residents and visitors to enjoy.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Amersham has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events. The town has been known to suffer from flooding due to heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Hitchin has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Ciara in 2020. The town has taken measures to mitigate future flood risks.


Local facilities

Amersham
Hitchin
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Amersham has a train station, providing convenient access to and from the town for commuters and visitors. The station is served by Chiltern Railways and offers regular services to London and other destinations.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Hitchin has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to London and other major cities in the region. The station offers regular services on the Great Northern line.
Transport links :
Amersham has good transport links to other areas with easy access to the M25 and M40 motorways. The town is also served by Amersham railway station, providing direct trains to London and other major cities.
Transport links :
Hitchin has good transport links to other areas, with easy access to major roads such as the A1(M) and the M1. The town also has a train station with regular services to London and other nearby towns.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Amersham has several primary schools in the town, including Chestnut Lane School and Elangeni School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and provide education for local children.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Hitchin has several primary schools, including Oughton Primary and Nursery School, Strathmore Infant and Nursery School, and Mary Exton Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Amersham has several secondary schools, including Dr Challoner's Grammar School and Dr Challoner's High School, both of which have received outstanding Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Hitchin has several secondary schools, including Hitchin Girls' School, Hitchin Boys' School, and The Priory School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of educational opportunities.
🟢 College : Yes.
Amersham has a college and a 6th form. The college offers a range of courses for students, and the 6th form provides opportunities for further education and qualifications.
🟢 College : Yes.
Hitchin has both a college and a 6th form. The college is North Hertfordshire College, offering a range of courses, and the 6th form is at Hitchin Girls' School, known for its academic excellence.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Amersham has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on attractions, accommodations, events, and more. It is a helpful resource for tourists exploring the town.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Hitchin has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on attractions, events, accommodations, and more to enhance their experience in the area.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Amersham 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.
Hitchin has a post office located in the town center, providing postal services such as sending mail, parcels, and handling other postal needs for residents and visitors.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Amersham has a public library that offers a variety of resources and services for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable hub for learning and community engagement.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Hitchin has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community. It is a popular destination for book lovers and those seeking knowledge and entertainment.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Amersham has a police station located in the town, providing essential law enforcement services and ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Hitchin has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and support to the local community for safety and security purposes.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Amersham has an NHS hospital, Amersham Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the local community. Residents have access to a range of medical facilities and treatments within the town.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital, known as Lister Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Amersham has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas in times of urgent medical needs.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in case of medical emergencies.


When choosing between Amersham and Hitchin, consider your preferences for a slower pace of life in Amersham with its traditional charm or the bustling atmosphere of Hitchin with its diverse range of shops and eateries. Both towns have their own appeal, so the right choice ultimately depends on what you value most in a market town.