Bury St Edmunds vs Ripon

Bury St Edmunds and Ripon are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Bury St Edmunds boasts a rich history dating back to the medieval times, while Ripon is known for its stunning cathedral and picturesque surroundings.

General information

Bury St Edmunds
Ripon
Introduction :
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town in Suffolk, England, known for its picturesque medieval architecture and rich heritage. The town dates back to the Saxon era and is home to the impressive St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Abbey Gardens, and a bustling market that has been operating for over a thousand years. Visitors can explore the town's charming streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Ripon is a charming market town with a rich history dating back over 1,300 years. Home to the stunning Ripon Cathedral, which dates back to the 7th century, Ripon offers a blend of historic architecture, quaint shops, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore the picturesque canal, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Skell, or indulge in delicious local produce at the weekly market. Ripon truly encapsulates the essence of a traditional English market town.

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Advantages :
  • Bury St Edmunds has a rich history dating back centuries.
  • The town offers a variety of cultural attractions and events.
  • Bury St Edmunds has good transport links to other major cities.
  • The town has a range of educational facilities and schools.
  • Bury St Edmunds has a vibrant market and shopping scene.
Advantages :
  • Ripon has a low crime rate, making it a safe town
  • The town has a strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
  • Ripon is home to a variety of historical landmarks and attractions
  • The cost of living in Ripon is relatively affordable compared to larger cities
  • The town offers excellent educational opportunities for residents
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities beyond secondary level
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural events
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Limited tourist attractions and amenities
Points of interest :
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town in Suffolk, known for its stunning cathedral, Abbey Gardens, and medieval architecture. Visitors can explore the ruins of the 11th-century Abbey of St Edmund, enjoy a show at the Theatre Royal, or take a stroll along the charming streets lined with independent shops and cafes. The town also hosts a popular Christmas market and the annual Bury St Edmunds Festival. History buffs can delve into the town's past at the Moyse's Hall Museum, while beer enthusiasts can tour the Greene King Brewery. Bury St Edmunds offers a mix of culture, history, and charm.
Points of interest :
Ripon is a historic market town in North Yorkshire, known for its stunning architecture, including the impressive Ripon Cathedral and the ancient Ripon Market Square. Visitors can explore the fascinating Ripon Workhouse Museum, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Ripon Canal, or take a trip to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey. The town also hosts the annual Ripon International Festival, showcasing a range of music and arts events. Ripon is steeped in history, with connections to the Vikings and Romans, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.


Facts and figures

Bury St Edmunds
Ripon
Type : Town.
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town in Suffolk, known for its medieval architecture, bustling market, and cultural attractions. It offers a mix of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Type : Town.
Ripon is a historic market town in North Yorkshire, known for its impressive cathedral and traditional market square. It offers a range of amenities and a strong sense of community.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Bury St Edmunds is not provided in the information available for comparison on market towns in the UK. Further research may be needed to determine the exact population figure.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Ripon is not specified in the available data. Further research or official sources may be needed to determine the exact population of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Bury St Edmunds is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult local real estate websites or agencies for the most up-to-date information on housing prices in the area.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Ripon can vary depending on the location, size, and condition of the property. It is recommended to research current listings and consult with local real estate agents for accurate pricing information.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Bury St Edmunds has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While there have been some incidents, overall the town is considered relatively safe.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Ripon has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, it is a relatively safe town, but residents should still take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
🟢 Education : Good.
Bury St Edmunds has a strong education system with a variety of schools and colleges offering high-quality education. The town has a reputation for academic excellence and a supportive learning environment.
🟢 Education : Good.
Ripon has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college offering further education. The town also has a reputation for high academic standards.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Bury St Edmunds offers a range of employment opportunities both in town and within commuting distance to major cities like Cambridge and Ipswich. Notable employers include British Sugar, Greene King, and West Suffolk Council.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Ripon offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a variety of businesses in the town center and surrounding areas. While not as robust as larger cities nearby, there are still decent job prospects available.


Geographical features

Bury St Edmunds
Ripon
Elevation : 50 meters
Bury St Edmunds has an average elevation of approximately 50 meters above sea level, providing a scenic view of the surrounding area and contributing to its unique charm.
Elevation : 118 feet
Ripon has an elevation of approximately 118 feet above sea level, making it a relatively low-lying town in the UK.
Topology : Bury St Edmunds is located on relatively flat terrain with some gentle slopes.
The general geographic topology of Bury St Edmunds is characterized by flat land with occasional slight inclines, providing a relatively easy landscape to navigate.
Topology : Hilly and rural
Ripon is situated in a hilly and rural area, surrounded by picturesque countryside and rolling hills. The town itself is nestled in a valley, adding to its charming and scenic appeal.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Bury St Edmunds is not a coastal town. The nearest coast is approximately 40 miles away to the east, with popular seaside destinations such as Felixstowe and Aldeburgh within reach.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Ripon is not a coastal town. It is located inland in North Yorkshire, approximately 40 miles away from the nearest coastline along the North Sea.
🟢 River : Yes.
The River Lark flows through Bury St Edmunds, providing a picturesque feature to the town. The river is a popular spot for leisure activities and adds to the town's charm.
🟢 River : Yes.
Ripon has the River Ure running through it, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for residents and visitors to enjoy, with opportunities for walks and riverside activities.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Bury St Edmunds does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there may be lakes or bodies of water in the surrounding areas, but the exact distance is unknown.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Ripon does not have a lake within the town limits, but there are several lakes in the surrounding area. The closest lake is approximately 5 miles away.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Bury St Edmunds does not have significant man-made waterways like reservoirs or canals. Further research is needed to confirm the presence of any smaller water features in the town.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Ripon's waterways are primarily natural, with the River Ure running through the town. There is no clear information available about man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals in Ripon.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Ciara in 2020. The town is susceptible to flooding due to its proximity to the River Lark.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Ripon has experienced flooding in the past due to heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers, such as during Storm Desmond in 2015. The town has implemented flood defense measures to mitigate future risks.


Local facilities

Bury St Edmunds
Ripon
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to and from the town for both residents and visitors. The station offers regular services to various destinations.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Ripon has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to nearby cities and towns. The station offers regular services to destinations across the region.
Transport links :
Bury St Edmunds has good transport links to other areas, with the A14 running nearby providing easy access to Cambridge and Ipswich. The town also has a train station with direct services to London and Norwich.
Transport links :
Ripon is well-connected by road with the A1(M) nearby, providing easy access to Leeds, York, and Harrogate. There are also regular bus services to surrounding towns and cities.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has several primary schools, including St Edmundsbury Church of England Primary School and Guildhall Feoffment Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Ripon has several primary schools, including Moorside Infant School, Holy Trinity Church of England Junior School, and Greystone Community Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has several secondary schools, including King Edward VI School, County Upper School, and St Benedict's Catholic School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Ripon has several secondary schools, including Outwood Academy Ripon and Ripon Grammar School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
College : .
Bury St Edmunds has a college and a 6th form. West Suffolk College offers a range of courses and programs for students looking to further their education in the town.
🟢 College : Yes.
Ripon has a college called Ripon Grammar School, which offers post-16 education. Additionally, there is Outwood Academy Ripon, a secondary school with a sixth form provision.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a tourist information center located in the town, providing visitors with helpful resources, maps, and assistance for exploring the area and its attractions.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Ripon has a tourist information office located in the city center, providing visitors with information on local attractions, events, accommodations, and more to enhance their experience in the town.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a post office located in the town center, providing postal services such as sending mail, parcels, and purchasing stamps for residents and visitors.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Ripon 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 parcels.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services to the local community, making it a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Ripon has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for residents and visitors to enjoy. It is a valuable community resource for learning and leisure.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a police station located in the town center, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community and visitors.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Ripon has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and assistance to residents and visitors. It serves as a hub for maintaining public safety and security.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has an NHS hospital called West Suffolk Hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Ripon has an NHS hospital called Ripon Community Hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has an NHS hospital, West Suffolk Hospital, which includes an accident and emergency department to provide emergency medical care to residents and visitors in the area.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Ripon has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.


When deciding between Bury St Edmunds and Ripon, consider whether you prefer a town with a strong historical presence like Bury St Edmunds or a town with a beautiful cathedral and scenic views like Ripon. Both towns offer a delightful experience, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.