Barnard Castle vs Marlborough

Barnard Castle and Marlborough are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque surroundings. While Barnard Castle boasts a rich medieval heritage and stunning riverside location, Marlborough is known for its elegant Georgian architecture and vibrant high street filled with independent shops and cafes.

General information

Barnard Castle
Marlborough
Introduction :
Barnard Castle is a charming market town located in County Durham, England. With a history dating back to the 12th century, this picturesque town is known for its stunning medieval castle, quaint cobbled streets, and vibrant market square. Visitors can explore the historic Bowes Museum, enjoy scenic walks along the River Tees, and indulge in delicious local cuisine at the town's cafes and restaurants. Barnard Castle offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Introduction :
Marlborough is a historic market town located in Wiltshire, England. Known for its charming high street lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, Marlborough offers a unique shopping and dining experience. The town is also famous for its annual Marlborough Jazz Festival and boasts a rich history dating back to the 11th century. With stunning countryside surroundings and easy access to the ancient Avebury Stone Circle, Marlborough is a popular destination for visitors seeking a quintessential English market town experience.

This website is not affiliated with any product, service or brand. Data has been gathered from a variety of sources. It is provided "as is" without warranty. Please do your own research and check with primary information sources before making decisions.

Advantages :
  • Barnard Castle offers a rich history and charming architecture.
  • The town has excellent schools and educational facilities.
  • It boasts a low crime rate, making it a safe place.
  • Barnard Castle has a range of amenities and recreational facilities.
  • The town’s proximity to beautiful countryside attracts tourists and residents.
Advantages :
  • Marlborough offers a charming market town atmosphere with historic buildings.
  • The town has excellent schools and educational opportunities for residents.
  • Marlborough is surrounded by stunning countryside and offers great outdoor activities.
  • The town has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
  • Marlborough has a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities for residents to enjoy.
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
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Higher crime rates compared to neighboring towns
  • Limited healthcare facilities and services
Points of interest :
Barnard Castle is a charming market town in County Durham, England, known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings. Key points of interest include the historic Barnard Castle ruins, Bowes Museum showcasing fine and decorative arts, the scenic River Tees, and the stunning High Force waterfall nearby. The town also offers quaint shops, cafes, and pubs for visitors to explore. Additionally, Barnard Castle gained recent infamy as the location where a controversial political figure made a controversial visit during the COVID-19 pandemic, attracting national attention.
Points of interest :


Facts and figures

Barnard Castle
Marlborough
Type : Town.
Barnard Castle is a historic market town in County Durham, known for its picturesque setting along the River Tees. It offers a range of amenities, shops, and attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Type : Town.
Marlborough is a historic market town in Wiltshire, known for its bustling high street, independent shops, and regular markets. With a population of around 8,500, it offers a mix of amenities and a vibrant community.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Barnard Castle is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine an accurate figure.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The exact population size of Marlborough is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the precise number of residents in the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Barnard Castle vary depending on the property type, location, and size. It is recommended to consult a local real estate agent or online listings for current average prices.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Marlborough 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.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Barnard Castle has an average level of crime compared to other towns. While there have been some incidents, overall it is considered a relatively safe place to live and visit.
Crime : .
Marlborough has low crime rates compared to other towns in the UK. The community is generally safe and there are few notable criminal incidents reported in the area.
🟢 Education : Good.
Barnard Castle has a strong educational system with well-regarded schools and a variety of educational opportunities. The town's commitment to providing quality education makes it a desirable place for families.
🟢 Education : Good.
Marlborough has a reputation for excellent education with a range of primary and secondary schools, including a prestigious public school. The town also has a strong sense of community support for education.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Barnard Castle offers average employment opportunities with a mix of retail, hospitality, and healthcare positions. Some residents commute to nearby cities like Durham or Darlington for additional job prospects.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Marlborough offers a range of employment opportunities both in town and in nearby cities like Swindon and Salisbury. Notable employers include Marlborough College, local shops, and businesses in various sectors.


Geographical features

Barnard Castle
Marlborough
Elevation : 180 meters
Barnard Castle is situated at an elevation of approximately 180 meters above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside in County Durham.
Elevation : 110 meters
Marlborough is situated at an elevation of approximately 110 meters above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and providing a unique charm to the town.
Topology : Hilly
Barnard Castle is situated in a hilly area, with the town itself located on a steep hill overlooking the River Tees. The surrounding countryside features rolling hills and valleys.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Marlborough is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape for residents and visitors to enjoy.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Barnard Castle is not a coastal town. It is located inland in County Durham, approximately 30 miles away from the nearest coastline along the North Sea.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Marlborough is not a coastal town. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away to the south, towards the English Channel.
🟢 River : Yes.
Barnard Castle is situated near the River Tees, which runs through the town, providing a picturesque setting and opportunities for riverside walks and activities.
🟢 River : Yes.
The River Kennet flows through Marlborough, adding to the town's picturesque charm. Residents and visitors can enjoy walks along the riverbanks and appreciate the natural beauty it brings to the area.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Barnard Castle does not have a lake within the town itself. However, the town is located near the River Tees, which offers picturesque riverside walks and views of the surrounding countryside.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Marlborough does not have a lake within the town limits. However, there may be lakes or reservoirs nearby, but the exact distance is unknown.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Barnard Castle's waterways are not well-documented. Further research is needed to determine if the town has man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Marlborough's man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals are not well-documented. Further research or local knowledge may be needed to confirm the presence of such features in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Barnard Castle has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Desmond in 2015. The town is situated near the River Tees, making it susceptible to flooding.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Marlborough has experienced flooding in the past, particularly during severe weather events such as Storm Dennis in 2020. The River Kennet has been known to overflow, causing localized flooding in the town.


Local facilities

Barnard Castle
Marlborough
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Barnard Castle has a train station located on the Tees Valley Line, providing connections to Darlington and Bishop Auckland. The station is a convenient transportation option for residents and visitors alike.
Train station : .
Marlborough does not have a train station. The nearest train station is Pewsey, located about 7 miles away, which provides connections to major cities like London and Exeter.
Transport links :
Barnard Castle is well-connected by road, with the A66 and A67 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The A1(M) motorway is also within reach, offering connections to major cities like Newcastle and Leeds.
Transport links :
Marlborough has good transport links to other areas with the A346 and A4 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The M4 motorway is also within reach for connections to London and Bristol.
Primary school : .
Barnard Castle has a primary school called Barnard Castle Primary School. It has received positive Ofsted ratings and offers education to children in the local area.
Primary school : .
Marlborough has several primary schools, including St. Mary's Church of England Primary School and Marlborough St. Mary's CE VC Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their academic standards.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Barnard Castle has a secondary school called Barnard Castle School, a co-educational independent school for students aged 4-18. The school has a strong academic reputation and offers a range of extracurricular activities.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Marlborough has one secondary school called St. John's Academy. The school has received positive Ofsted observations and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 College : Yes.
Barnard Castle has a college called Barnard Castle School, which offers education for students aged 4-18. It is a well-established institution with a strong academic reputation.
🟢 College : Yes.
Marlborough has a college called St John's Academy which offers post-16 education. The college provides a range of courses and opportunities for students to further their education and skills.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Barnard Castle has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on local attractions, events, and accommodations. It serves as a helpful resource for tourists exploring the town.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Marlborough has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on local attractions, events, and accommodations. It serves as a helpful resource for tourists exploring the area.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Barnard Castle has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient resource for mailing letters and packages.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Marlborough 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.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Barnard Castle has a public library that offers a variety of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Marlborough has a public library that offers a range of services and resources for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable community hub for learning and leisure activities.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Barnard Castle does have a police station, providing a local law enforcement presence for the town and surrounding area. Residents can access police services and assistance when needed.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
The Marlborough police station is located in the town center, providing a visible presence and quick response to any incidents or emergencies in the area.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Barnard Castle does have an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas. Residents have access to medical care and facilities within the town.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Marlborough does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. Further research is needed to determine the nearest hospital facilities available to residents in the area.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Barnard Castle has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community and visitors in need of urgent medical attention.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Marlborough's healthcare facilities are not specified. It is recommended to check with local sources or the NHS website for up-to-date information on hospitals and emergency services in the area.


When choosing between Barnard Castle and Marlborough, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer the tranquil beauty of Barnard Castle or the bustling atmosphere of Marlborough, both towns offer a delightful experience for visitors and residents alike. Whichever town you choose, you’re sure to find a welcoming community and plenty of attractions to explore.