Bakewell vs Cirencester

Bakewell and Cirencester are two charming market towns in the UK known for their historic architecture, picturesque surroundings, and bustling marketplaces. Both towns offer a unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, making them popular destinations for visitors and locals alike.

General information

Bakewell
Cirencester
Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Bakewell is a charming market town known for its picturesque surroundings and rich history. Famous for its delicious Bakewell pudding, the town offers a mix of traditional market stalls, independent shops, and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the beautiful River Wye, enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside, and immerse themselves in the town's vibrant market culture. Bakewell is a must-visit destination for those seeking a quintessential English market town experience.
Introduction :
Cirencester, known as the 'Capital of the Cotswolds', is a charming market town in Gloucestershire, England. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, visitors can explore the ancient amphitheater, historic church, and picturesque streets lined with independent shops and cafes. The town hosts a vibrant market every Monday and Friday, offering a variety of local produce and artisan goods. Surrounded by stunning countryside, Cirencester is a popular destination for those seeking a quintessential English experience.

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Advantages :
  • Bakewell is a picturesque market town in the Peak District
  • Low crime rate, making it a safe place to live
  • Excellent schools and educational facilities for families
  • Abundance of local amenities and shops for convenience
  • Popular tourist destination with historic landmarks and outdoor activities
Advantages :
  • Cirencester has a rich history and charming architecture to explore.
  • The town offers a good selection of schools and educational facilities.
  • Cirencester is well-connected with easy access to major cities.
  • The cost of living in Cirencester is relatively affordable compared to other towns.
  • The town has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
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
  • Limited tourist attractions and activities
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
  • Limited tourist attractions compared to other market towns
Points of interest :
Bakewell is a charming market town in Derbyshire, known for its historic buildings, picturesque streets, and stunning countryside surroundings. Key points of interest include the famous Bakewell Bridge, the historic All Saints Church, and the beautiful Bakewell Old House Museum. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the town's independent shops, cafes, and pubs, as well as trying the famous Bakewell Pudding. Bakewell is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the nearby Peak District National Park. The town also hosts a variety of events and markets throughout the year.
Points of interest :
Cirencester, known as the 'Capital of the Cotswolds', boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with attractions such as the Corinium Museum and the Roman Amphitheatre. The town is also home to the impressive Cirencester Parish Church and the Abbey Grounds, a picturesque park perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can explore the bustling market square, lined with charming shops and cafes, or take a walk along the River Churn. Cirencester is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Cotswold Water Park nearby offering a range of water-based activities.


Facts and figures

Bakewell
Cirencester
Type : Town.
Bakewell is a charming market town in Derbyshire, known for its historic buildings, picturesque surroundings, and traditional market square. It offers a range of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Type : Town.
Cirencester is a historic market town in the Cotswolds known for its Roman history, charming architecture, and vibrant market scene. It offers a mix of independent shops, cafes, and cultural attractions.
Population : .
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The exact population size of Cirencester is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the accurate population figure for this market town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Bakewell can vary greatly depending on the size, location, and condition of the property. It is recommended to research current listings and consult with local real estate agents for accurate pricing information.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Cirencester 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.
Bakewell has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, the town is considered safe, but residents are advised to take normal precautions to ensure their safety.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Crime in Cirencester is average for a market town. There have been reports of petty theft and anti-social behavior, but overall, it is considered a relatively safe place to live and visit.
🟢 Education : Good.
Bakewell offers a good education system with well-rated schools and a supportive community. Students have access to quality resources and extracurricular activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
🟢 Education : Good.
Cirencester has a strong education system with a range of primary and secondary schools, as well as a campus of the Royal Agricultural University. The town is known for its high academic standards and supportive learning environment.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Bakewell offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and shops providing jobs. However, many residents may need to commute to nearby cities like Sheffield or Derby for more diverse job options.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Cirencester offers a range of employment opportunities with a mix of industries such as tourism, retail, education, and healthcare. The town is also close to major cities like Bristol and Swindon for additional job prospects.


Geographical features

Bakewell
Cirencester
Elevation : 302 feet
Bakewell's elevation above sea level is approximately 302 feet, offering a picturesque setting in the Peak District with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Elevation : 210 feet
Cirencester has an average elevation of approximately 210 feet above sea level, making it a charming market town nestled in the Cotswold hills.
Topology : Hilly
Bakewell is situated in the Peak District National Park, characterized by its hilly terrain and stunning views. The town is nestled in a valley alongside the River Wye, surrounded by rolling hills.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Cirencester is situated in the Cotswolds, known for its picturesque rolling hills and valleys. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Bakewell is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, surrounded by picturesque countryside and the River Wye.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Cirencester is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the Cotswolds, surrounded by picturesque countryside and historic landmarks. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away to the west in Gloucester.
🟢 River : Yes.
The town of Bakewell has the River Wye flowing through it, providing a picturesque waterfront for residents and visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
🟢 River : Yes.
Cirencester has the River Churn flowing through it, 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.
Bakewell does not have a lake within the town itself, but there are several beautiful lakes in the Peak District National Park nearby, such as Ladybower Reservoir and Carsington Water.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Cirencester does not have a lake within the town itself. However, the town is located close to several lakes in the Cotswolds, such as the Cotswold Water Park, which is a short drive away.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Bakewell's man-made waterways are not well-documented. Further research is needed to determine if the town has reservoirs or canals.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Cirencester has man-made waterways, including the Thames and Severn Canal which passes through the town, providing a picturesque setting for visitors and locals to enjoy.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Bakewell has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the heavy rainfall and storms in 2007 which caused significant damage to properties and infrastructure in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Cirencester has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Dennis in 2020. The town is susceptible to flooding due to its proximity to the River Churn.


Local facilities

Bakewell
Cirencester
Train station : .
Bakewell has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access for visitors and residents to travel to nearby areas such as Matlock and Buxton.
Train station : .
Cirencester has a train station located on the outskirts of the town, providing easy access to nearby cities and towns. The station offers regular services to London and other major destinations.
Transport links :
Bakewell has good transport links to other areas with easy access to major roads such as the A6 and A619. The town is also close to the M1 motorway, providing connections to nearby cities and towns.
Transport links :
Cirencester has good transport links to other areas with the A417 providing easy access to the M5 motorway. The town is also served by regular bus services connecting to nearby towns and cities.
Primary school : .
Bakewell has a primary school called Bakewell Church of England Infant School, providing education for young children in the town. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings in recent years.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Cirencester has multiple primary schools, including Cirencester Primary School and Chesterton Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of educational opportunities for young students.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Bakewell has one secondary school called Lady Manners School, which has a good Ofsted rating and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Cirencester has several secondary schools, including Cirencester Deer Park School and Cirencester Kingshill School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
⚪ College : Unknown.
There is no specific information available about the presence of a college or 6th form in Bakewell. Further research or local inquiries may be needed to confirm this information.
🟢 College : Yes.
Cirencester has both a college and a 6th form. The college offers a range of courses and the 6th form provides A-level education for students in the area.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Bakewell has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on local attractions, events, accommodations, and more to enhance their experience in the area.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Cirencester has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with helpful resources, maps, and guidance on local attractions and activities.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Bakewell has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities for residents and visitors.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Cirencester has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors alike. It is a convenient facility for sending and receiving mail and parcels.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Bakewell has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Cirencester has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Bakewell has a police station located in the town center, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community and visitors.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
There is a police station in Cirencester, providing law enforcement services and ensuring public safety in the town and surrounding areas.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Bakewell does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. It is recommended to check nearby towns for healthcare services.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Cirencester has an NHS hospital called Cirencester Hospital, which provides a range of healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Bakewell's healthcare facilities may include a hospital with an accident and emergency department, but specific information on an NHS hospital in the town is not readily available. Further research is recommended.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Cirencester has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the town and surrounding areas in times of urgent medical need.


When choosing between Bakewell and Cirencester, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Bakewell’s famous pudding and stunning Peak District location may appeal to foodies and nature lovers, while Cirencester’s Roman history and vibrant shopping scene may attract history buffs and avid shoppers. Whichever town you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable experience in these quintessentially British market towns.