Devizes vs Ross-on-Wye

Devizes and Ross-on-Wye are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering its own unique character and attractions. Devizes is known for its historic market square and impressive medieval castle, while Ross-on-Wye boasts stunning views of the River Wye and picturesque streets lined with independent shops and cafes.

General information

Devizes
Ross-on-Wye
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 :
Ross-on-Wye is a picturesque market town located in Herefordshire, England. Known for its stunning views overlooking the River Wye and the surrounding countryside, Ross-on-Wye offers a charming mix of historic buildings, independent shops, and traditional markets. The town has a rich history dating back to medieval times and is a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the English countryside.

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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 :
  • Ross-on-Wye offers a picturesque location with stunning countryside views.
  • The town has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
  • There are good educational facilities, including schools and libraries.
  • Ross-on-Wye has a range of amenities and shops for residents.
  • The town attracts tourists with its historic buildings and outdoor activities.
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
  • Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates compared to national average
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education
  • Limited tourist attractions and entertainment options
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 :
Ross-on-Wye is a picturesque market town known for its stunning views over the River Wye. Key points of interest include the historic Market House, the 13th-century St. Mary's Church, and the Prospect Gardens offering panoramic views. Visitors can explore the town's independent shops, cafes, and galleries, or enjoy outdoor activities such as canoeing and hiking in the surrounding countryside. Ross-on-Wye is also famous for hosting the annual Ross-on-Wye Cider Festival and the Ross-on-Wye May Fayre. With its charming streets and rich history, Ross-on-Wye is a delightful destination for tourists.


Facts and figures

Devizes
Ross-on-Wye
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.
Ross-on-Wye is a historic market town located in Herefordshire, known for its picturesque setting along the River Wye. It offers a range of amenities, shops, and attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.
⚪ 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 population size of Ross-on-Wye is currently unknown. More research may be needed to determine the exact population figure for this market town in the UK.
⚪ 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 Ross-on-Wye 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.
🟡 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.
Ross-on-Wye has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While there have been some incidents, overall the town remains relatively safe for residents and visitors.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college offering further education opportunities. The town also has a reputation for high academic standards.
🟡 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 : Average.
Ross-on-Wye offers a mix of employment opportunities in sectors such as retail, tourism, and healthcare. While there are some job prospects within the town, many residents commute to larger cities nearby for work.


Geographical features

Devizes
Ross-on-Wye
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 : 147 meters
Ross-on-Wye sits at an elevation of approximately 147 meters above sea level, offering residents and visitors picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and River Wye.
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 : Hilly
Ross-on-Wye is situated in a hilly area, with the town itself located on a ridge overlooking the River Wye. The surrounding countryside is characterized by rolling hills and valleys.
🔴 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.
Ross-on-Wye is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Herefordshire, England, approximately 50 miles away from the nearest coast, which is the Bristol Channel.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has the River Wye running through it, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The river adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
⚪ 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.
Ross-on-Wye 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.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
Ross-on-Wye does not have well-known man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals. Further research is needed to determine if there are any smaller or lesser-known water features in the town.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Dennis in 2020. The town is situated near the River Wye, which can overflow during heavy rainfall.


Local facilities

Devizes
Ross-on-Wye
🟢 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 : .
Ross-on-Wye has a train station located on the Welsh Marches Line, providing connections to Hereford, Newport, and Cardiff. The station is situated in the town center, making it convenient for residents and visitors.
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 :
Ross-on-Wye has good transport links to other areas, with the A40 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The M50 motorway is also close by, offering connections to the wider road network.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has several primary schools, including John Kyrle High School and Sixth Form Centre, which has a good Ofsted rating. Other primary schools in the area provide a range of educational options.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has several secondary schools, including John Kyrle High School and Sixth Form Centre, which has received positive Ofsted ratings for its academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has a college called Herefordshire and Ludlow College, which offers a range of courses for students aged 16 and above, including A-levels and vocational qualifications.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye 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.
🟢 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.
There is a post office located in Ross-on-Wye, providing postal services and other related amenities to the residents and visitors of the town.
🟢 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.
Ross-on-Wye has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services to the local community. It is a valuable hub for learning and leisure 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.
The town of Ross-on-Wye does have a police station, providing a local law enforcement presence for the community 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.
Ross-on-Wye has an NHS hospital called Ross Community Hospital, providing 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 : Unknown.
Ross-on-Wye does not have an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Further research is needed to determine the closest medical facilities for emergency care in the area.


When choosing between Devizes and Ross-on-Wye, consider whether you prefer a town steeped in history like Devizes or a town with scenic river views like Ross-on-Wye. Both towns offer a delightful mix of amenities and charm, making either a great choice for those seeking a quintessential market town experience.