Amersham vs Totnes

Amersham and Totnes are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. While Amersham boasts historic architecture and a picturesque setting in the Chiltern Hills, Totnes offers a bohemian vibe and a strong focus on sustainability and local produce.

General information

Amersham
Totnes
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 :
Nestled in the heart of South Devon, Totnes is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to Saxon times. Known for its vibrant community, eclectic shops, and thriving market scene, Totnes offers a unique blend of traditional charm and alternative culture. The town is also famous for its historic castle, stunning riverside views, and proximity to the beautiful Devon countryside, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals 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 :
  • Totnes has a strong sense of community and local pride. - The town offers a range of independent shops and markets. - Totnes is known for its alternative and eco-friendly lifestyle. - It has good access to public transportation and major roads. - The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and the River Dart.
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 job opportunities
  • High cost of living
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High crime rate
  • Lack of major shopping facilities
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 :
Totnes is a charming market town in Devon known for its historic architecture, independent shops, and vibrant community. Key points of interest include Totnes Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views over the town and River Dart; the unique Totnes Guildhall, a Grade I listed building dating back to the 16th century; the bustling Totnes Market, offering a variety of local produce and crafts; the picturesque River Dart, perfect for boat trips and riverside walks; and the quirky shops and cafes along the town's narrow streets. Totnes also has a reputation for its alternative lifestyle and eco-friendly initiatives.


Facts and figures

Amersham
Totnes
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.
Totnes is a vibrant market town in Devon, known for its independent shops, markets, and community spirit. With a rich history and picturesque surroundings, it offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities.
⚪ 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 exact population size of Totnes is currently unknown. It may vary depending on the source of information, and further research may be needed to determine an accurate figure.
⚪ 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 Totnes is currently unknown. Further research or data collection is needed to determine this information and identify any trends in the housing market 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.
Totnes has an average level of crime, with occasional reports of theft and anti-social behavior. Overall, it is a relatively safe town but residents should still take 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.
Totnes has a strong reputation for education with a range of primary and secondary schools performing well. The town also has a number of alternative education options, including Steiner and Montessori schools.
🟡 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 : Average.
Totnes offers a mix of employment opportunities, including retail, hospitality, and tourism. While there are some job prospects in town, many residents commute to nearby cities like Exeter and Plymouth for work.


Geographical features

Amersham
Totnes
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 : 50 meters
Totnes is situated at an approximate elevation of 50 meters above sea level, offering residents and visitors a slightly elevated perspective of the surrounding countryside and River Dart.
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 : Totnes is situated on a hill overlooking the River Dart.
The town's geography includes steep slopes and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with the river providing a picturesque backdrop.
🔴 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.
Totnes is not a coastal town. It is located inland in South Devon, approximately 6 miles from the nearest coastline along the River Dart estuary.
🟢 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 town of Totnes is located on the River Dart, with the river flowing through or very near the town center. The River Dart provides a picturesque setting for the town and offers opportunities for boating and riverside walks.
⚪ 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.
There is no information available about a lake in Totnes. It is recommended to further research or inquire locally for more details on any nearby lakes.
🟢 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.
Totnes has man-made waterways in the form of the River Dart and the Dartington Hall estate's ornamental gardens which include a series of interconnected ponds and canals.
🟢 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.
Totnes has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the severe storms of 2014 which caused significant damage to properties and infrastructure in the town.


Local facilities

Amersham
Totnes
🟢 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.
Totnes has a train station located in the town center, providing easy access to and from other destinations in the UK. The station is served by regular services on the mainline between London and Penzance.
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 :
Totnes has good transport links to other areas with easy access to the A38, connecting to Plymouth and Exeter. The town also has a railway station with services to London, Plymouth, and Exeter.
🟢 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.
Totnes has several primary schools, including Bridgetown Primary School and Dartington C of E Primary School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their teaching and learning environments.
🟢 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.
Totnes has several secondary schools, including King Edward VI Community College and Dartington Hall School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular 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.
Totnes has a college called South Devon College, offering a range of courses for students aged 16 and above. There is also a 6th form at King Edward VI Community College in the town.
🟢 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.
Totnes has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with helpful resources, maps, and recommendations for exploring the area and its attractions.
🟢 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.
Totnes has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related services to the local residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility for sending and receiving mail.
🟢 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.
Totnes has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable hub for learning and leisure activities.
🟢 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.
Totnes has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and assistance to the local community. Residents and visitors can access police support and resources in the area.
🟢 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.
Totnes has a community hospital that provides NHS services to residents and visitors. It offers a range of medical care and support for the local community.
🟢 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.
Totnes has a community hospital with an NHS minor injuries unit that provides accident and emergency services for minor injuries and illnesses. It is not a full-scale A&E department.


When choosing between Amersham and Totnes, consider whether you prefer a traditional English market town with a rich history or a more alternative and environmentally conscious community. Both towns have their own appeal, so the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of lifestyle you are looking for.