Cockermouth vs Henley-on-Thames

Cockermouth and Henley-on-Thames are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. While Cockermouth is nestled in the picturesque Lake District with stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, Henley-on-Thames boasts a rich heritage, elegant architecture, and a vibrant arts scene.

General information

Cockermouth
Henley-on-Thames
Introduction :
Nestled in the picturesque Lake District National Park, Cockermouth is a charming market town known for its rich history and stunning scenery. With a history dating back to Roman times, visitors can explore historic sites such as Cockermouth Castle and Wordsworth House. The town is also famous for its annual food festival, showcasing the best of Cumbrian cuisine. With a vibrant market square and a range of independent shops and cafes, Cockermouth offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity.
Introduction :
Nestled along the banks of the River Thames, Henley-on-Thames is a picturesque market town known for its historic charm and stunning riverside setting. Home to the world-renowned Henley Royal Regatta, the town attracts visitors from far and wide to watch rowing races on the river. With a rich history dating back to the 12th century, Henley-on-Thames offers a delightful mix of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs for visitors to explore.

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Advantages :
  • Cockermouth has a low crime rate, making it a safe town.
  • The town offers a range of educational facilities for residents.
  • Cockermouth is surrounded by beautiful scenery, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • The cost of living in Cockermouth is relatively affordable compared to other towns.
  • The town attracts tourists with its historic attractions and cultural events.
Advantages :
  • Henley-on-Thames offers a picturesque setting along the River Thames.
  • The town has a strong sense of community and a variety of local events.
  • Henley-on-Thames has excellent schools and educational opportunities.
  • There are plenty of recreational facilities and outdoor activities available.
  • The town is well-connected with good transport links for easy access.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rate than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of major tourist attractions
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of diverse cultural and entertainment facilities
Points of interest :
Cockermouth is a charming market town in Cumbria, known for its picturesque setting on the River Cocker and its proximity to the Lake District National Park. Key points of interest include the historic Cockermouth Castle, Wordsworth House and Garden (the birthplace of poet William Wordsworth), Jennings Brewery for beer enthusiasts, the Kirkgate Centre for arts and culture, and the annual Cockermouth Agricultural Show. The town also offers a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for tourists exploring the Lake District region.
Points of interest :
Henley-on-Thames is known for its annual Royal Regatta, a prestigious rowing event. The town also boasts a beautiful riverside setting along the River Thames, perfect for scenic walks and boat trips. Visitors can explore the historic Henley Bridge, browse the shops and cafes on Market Place, or visit the River and Rowing Museum. Henley is home to the Kenton Theatre, one of the oldest working theatres in the UK, and the Chantry House, a Tudor building housing a local history museum. The town's charming streets and traditional pubs add to its appeal for tourists.


Facts and figures

Cockermouth
Henley-on-Thames
Type : Town.
Cockermouth is a historic market town in Cumbria, known for its picturesque setting on the edge of the Lake District National Park. It offers a range of amenities, cultural attractions, and a vibrant community.
Type : Town.
Henley-on-Thames is a historic market town known for its picturesque setting along the River Thames. It offers a range of amenities, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Cockermouth is not provided in the information available. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Henley-on-Thames is currently unknown. It may vary over time due to factors such as migration and urban development.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Cockermouth 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.
🟢 Population : Yes.
The average house price in Henley-on-Thames is £800,000, making it a high-end market town with properties often exceeding this figure. Prices have been steadily increasing in recent years.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Cockermouth 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 : Good.
Henley-on-Thames has a relatively low crime rate compared to other towns in the UK. The community is tight-knit and there is a strong police presence, contributing to a safe environment for residents and visitors.
🟢 Education : Good.
Cockermouth has a strong education system with well-performing schools and a variety of educational opportunities for students. The town is known for its supportive community and high academic standards.
🟢 Education : Good.
Henley-on-Thames has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a renowned independent school. The town also hosts the prestigious Henley Business School, known for its quality education.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Cockermouth offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a range of businesses in the town center and surrounding areas. While not as abundant as in larger cities, there are opportunities available for various skill sets.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Henley-on-Thames offers a range of employment opportunities, with a mix of local businesses, retail shops, hospitality sector, and professional services. Additionally, its proximity to major cities like Oxford and Reading provides further job prospects.


Geographical features

Cockermouth
Henley-on-Thames
Elevation : 105 meters
Cockermouth has an elevation of approximately 105 meters above sea level, providing stunning views of the surrounding countryside and nearby Lake District National Park.
Elevation : 190 feet
Henley-on-Thames has an elevation of approximately 190 feet above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and the River Thames.
Topology : Hilly and surrounded by rivers
Cockermouth is situated in a hilly area with the River Cocker and River Derwent flowing nearby, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape for the town.
Topology : Hilly and surrounded by countryside
Henley-on-Thames is situated in a hilly area with the town itself nestled along the River Thames. The surrounding countryside offers picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Cockermouth is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Cumbria, near the Lake District National Park. The nearest coast is approximately 10 miles away at the Solway Firth.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Henley-on-Thames is not a coastal town. It is located inland along the River Thames in Oxfordshire, known for its picturesque setting and annual regatta. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away to the south.
🟢 River : Yes.
Cockermouth has the River Cocker running through it, providing a picturesque feature in the town. The river adds to the town's charm and offers opportunities for riverside walks and activities.
🟢 River : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames is situated on the River Thames, with the town center located right by the river. The river plays a significant role in the town's history, culture, and economy.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Cockermouth is located near the beautiful Lake District National Park, which is home to several stunning lakes including Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake. Visitors can enjoy a range of water activities and scenic views.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames is situated on the banks of the River Thames, which is often referred to as a 'lake' due to its width and calm waters. The town hosts the annual Henley Royal Regatta, a prestigious rowing event.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Cockermouth has man-made waterways in the form of reservoirs and canals, adding to the town's charm and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has man-made waterways in the form of the River Thames, which runs through the town, as well as the Henley Reach section of the river that is used for rowing events.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Cockermouth has a history of flooding, notably during the severe storms of November 2009 when the River Derwent burst its banks, causing significant damage to the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as the Thames flooding in 2014 and 2020. The town is situated along the River Thames, making it vulnerable to flooding.


Local facilities

Cockermouth
Henley-on-Thames
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Cockermouth has a train station located on the Cumbrian Coast Line, providing connections to major cities such as Carlisle and Barrow-in-Furness. The station is situated in the town center, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to and from the town for both residents and visitors. The station is served by regular train services to London and other destinations.
Transport links :
Cockermouth has good transport links to other areas with the A66 running through the town, providing easy access to major cities like Carlisle and Penrith. The town is also close to the M6 motorway for further connections.
Transport links :
Henley-on-Thames has good transport links to other areas, with the A4130 providing easy access to major roads such as the M4 and M40. The town also has a train station with regular services to London and other nearby towns.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Cockermouth has several primary schools, including Fairfield Primary School and All Saints' CofE Primary School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their teaching and learning environment.
Primary school : .
Henley-on-Thames has several primary schools, including Trinity CofE Primary School, Badgemore Primary School, and Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Cockermouth School is the main secondary school in the town, providing education for students aged 11-18. It has received positive Ofsted ratings and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has multiple secondary schools, including The Henley College and Gillotts School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 College : Yes.
Cockermouth has a college called Cockermouth School which offers post-16 education through its sixth form. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings for its academic standards and student support.
College : .
Henley-on-Thames is home to The Henley College, offering a range of A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships. The college has received positive Ofsted ratings for its teaching and student support.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Cockermouth has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on local attractions, accommodations, and events happening in the area.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on local attractions, events, and accommodations to enhance their stay in the area.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Cockermouth 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.
Henley-on-Thames has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility for mailing letters and packages.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Cockermouth has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a public library that offers a variety of resources and services for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable community space for learning and leisure.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Cockermouth has a police station located in the town center, providing essential law enforcement services and ensuring public safety for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a police station located in the town center, providing security and law enforcement services to residents and visitors. The station offers a visible police presence in the community.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Cockermouth has an NHS hospital known as the West Cumberland Hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has the Townlands Hospital, which is part of the NHS. It provides a range of healthcare services to the local community, including outpatient clinics and a minor injuries unit.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Cockermouth has an NHS hospital, the West Cumberland Hospital, which includes an accident and emergency department to provide medical care for residents and visitors in need of urgent treatment.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has the Townlands Hospital which includes an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community.


When choosing between Cockermouth and Henley-on-Thames, consider your preferences for outdoor adventures versus cultural experiences. Cockermouth is perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility, while Henley-on-Thames appeals to those interested in history and the arts. Both towns have their own distinct charm, making either a delightful choice for a visit or a place to call home.