Devizes vs Cirencester

Cirencester and Devizes are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Cirencester is known for its Roman history and picturesque Cotswold setting, while Devizes boasts a rich heritage and a bustling market scene.

General information

Devizes
Cirencester
Introduction :
Located in the heart of Wiltshire, Devizes is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Known for its bustling weekly market, historic landmarks such as the 19th-century Wiltshire Museum and the impressive Devizes Castle, the town offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities. With its picturesque canal, vibrant town center, and friendly community, Devizes is a delightful destination for visitors and residents alike.
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 :
  • Devizes has a rich history and heritage to explore
  • The town offers a variety of shops and amenities
  • There are good transport links to nearby cities
  • Devizes has a strong sense of community spirit
  • The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside for 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 make it difficult to get around.
  • High cost of living compared to other towns in the area.
  • Higher crime rates than national average, particularly in certain areas.
  • Limited educational opportunities and lower performing schools.
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural amenities.
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 :
Devizes is a charming market town in Wiltshire, known for its historic landmarks such as the 11th-century Devizes Castle and the Wadworth Brewery, offering tours and tastings. The town is home to the famous Caen Hill Locks, a flight of 29 locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal, a popular spot for canal boat enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the award-winning Devizes Museum, showcasing the town's rich history. The annual Devizes International Street Festival brings vibrant entertainment to the town, while the weekly market offers a variety of local produce and crafts. The town also boasts a range of independent shops and cafes to explore.
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

Devizes
Cirencester
Type : Town.
Devizes is a historic market town in Wiltshire, known for its bustling market, independent shops, and rich heritage. With a vibrant community and range of amenities, it offers a quintessential English town experience.
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 : Unknown.
The population size of Devizes is not specified. Further research or data collection is needed to determine the exact population figure for this market town in the UK.
⚪ 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.
The average house price in Devizes is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult a local real estate agent or online property websites for the most up-to-date information on housing prices in the area.
⚪ 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.
Devizes has an average level of crime, with some reports of petty theft and anti-social behavior. However, overall it is considered a relatively safe town compared to others in the UK.
🟡 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.
Devizes offers a strong education system with a variety of schools and educational opportunities for students. The town has a reputation for high academic standards and a supportive learning environment.
🟢 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.
Devizes offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a variety of businesses in the town center and surrounding areas. There are also commuting options to larger cities nearby for additional job prospects.
🟢 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

Devizes
Cirencester
Elevation : 394 feet (120 meters)
Devizes has an elevation of approximately 394 feet (120 meters) above sea level, providing picturesque views of the surrounding countryside in Wiltshire.
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 : Devizes is situated in a valley surrounded by hills and farmland.
The town is nestled in a picturesque setting with rolling hills and agricultural land, creating a scenic and tranquil environment.
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.
Devizes is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Wiltshire, England, approximately 50 miles away from the nearest coast. Despite its lack of coastal location, Devizes offers a charming market town atmosphere with historical attractions and scenic countryside surroundings.
🔴 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.
Devizes has the River Avon running through it, providing a scenic waterway for residents and visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the town's charm and offers opportunities for leisure activities.
🟢 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.
Devizes does not have a lake within the town itself, but there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area. The closest lake is likely to be a short drive away.
⚪ 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 : Yes.
Devizes has man-made waterways such as the Kennet and Avon Canal, which runs through the town, providing a picturesque setting for boating and walking along the towpath.
🟢 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.
Devizes has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Angus in 2016. The town is situated near the River Avon, which can contribute to flooding.
🟢 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

Devizes
Cirencester
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Devizes has a train station located on the Westbury to Swindon line, providing convenient access to surrounding areas. The station offers regular services for commuters and visitors alike.
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 :
Devizes has good transport links to other areas with the A361 and A342 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The M4 motorway is also within a short drive for connections to Bristol and London.
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 : Yes.
Devizes has several primary schools, including Southbroom Infants School and Wansdyke Primary School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their teaching and learning standards.
🟢 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.
Devizes has a secondary school named Devizes School, which has received positive Ofsted observations and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students in the area.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Devizes has a college and a 6th form, providing post-16 education options for students in the town. The institutions offer a range of courses and qualifications for further study.
🟢 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.
Devizes has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on local attractions, accommodations, and events, making it easier for tourists to explore the town and surrounding areas.
🟢 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.
Devizes has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities for the local community 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.
Devizes has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services to the community. It serves as a hub for learning, research, and leisure activities 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.
Devizes has a police station located in the town, providing law enforcement services and support to the local community. Residents can access police assistance and resources within the area.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Devizes does have an NHS hospital, the Devizes Community Hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community. Residents have access to a range of medical facilities and treatments within the town.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Devizes 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.
🟢 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 Cirencester and Devizes, consider whether you prefer a tranquil Cotswold experience or a lively market town vibe. Both towns offer a delightful mix of history, culture, and community spirit, making either a great choice for those seeking a quintessential English market town experience.