Devizes vs Tavistock

Devizes and Tavistock are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Devizes is known for its historic architecture and bustling market scene, while Tavistock boasts stunning natural surroundings and a rich cultural heritage.

General information

Devizes
Tavistock
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 :
Tavistock is a historic market town located in West Devon, England. With a rich history dating back to the 10th century, Tavistock is known for its bustling Pannier Market, charming architecture, and stunning natural surroundings including Dartmoor National Park. The town offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy, as well as a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Tavistock is a vibrant and picturesque town that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

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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 :
  • Tavistock has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live
  • The town offers a range of educational facilities for all ages
  • Tavistock is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and countryside
  • The town has a variety of amenities and facilities for residents
  • Tavistock is a popular tourist destination with historic attractions
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
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of tourist attractions
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 :
Tavistock is a charming market town in Devon, known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Pannier Market and the ancient abbey ruins. Visitors can explore the beautiful Tavistock Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Tavy. The town is also famous for being the birthplace of Sir Francis Drake. Tavistock offers a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great destination for shopping and dining. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the town's proximity to Dartmoor National Park for hiking and exploring the stunning natural surroundings.


Facts and figures

Devizes
Tavistock
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.
Tavistock is a historic market town in Devon, known for its bustling market, independent shops, and picturesque surroundings. It offers a range of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
⚪ 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 Tavistock is not provided in the data available for comparison. Further research may be needed to determine the exact population of 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 Tavistock is currently unknown. It would be advisable 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.
Tavistock has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While there are occasional incidents, overall the town is considered 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.
Tavistock offers a high standard of education with well-regarded schools and a strong sense of community support for learning. The town has a reputation for academic excellence and a variety of educational opportunities.
🟡 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.
Tavistock offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a variety of businesses and shops in the town center. Additionally, the proximity to Plymouth provides access to more diverse job options in a larger city.


Geographical features

Devizes
Tavistock
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 : 850 feet
Tavistock is situated at an elevation of approximately 850 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and contributing to its unique charm and character.
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
Tavistock is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape. The town is nestled within this topography, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
🔴 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.
Tavistock is not a coastal town. However, it is located near the south-west coast of England, approximately 25 miles from the nearest coastline.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
Tavistock is not known to have a river running through or very near it. However, it is located approximately 20 miles from the south coast of England and about 40 miles from the north coast.
⚪ 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.
Tavistock is not known to have a lake within the town limits. However, there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area, such as Siblyback Lake and Burrator Reservoir, which are 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.
Tavistock 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.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has experienced flooding in the past, particularly during severe weather events such as Storm Emma in 2018. The River Tavy has been known to overflow, causing localized flooding in the town.


Local facilities

Devizes
Tavistock
🟢 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 : .
Tavistock has a train station located on Station Road, providing easy access to and from the town for commuters and visitors. The station offers regular services to nearby towns and cities.
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 :
Tavistock has good transport links to other areas with the A386 providing access to Plymouth, the A30 connecting to Exeter and the M5 motorway, and regular bus services to surrounding towns and villages.
🟢 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 : .
Tavistock has several primary schools, including Tavistock Community Primary School and Gulworthy Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of educational opportunities for local children.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has a secondary school called Tavistock College, which has a good reputation and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has a college, Tavistock College, which offers post-16 education. Additionally, there is a 6th form provision at the college for students to continue their studies.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has a tourist information facility where visitors can gather information about local attractions, events, and accommodations to enhance their experience in the town.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
There is no definitive information available regarding the presence of a post office in Tavistock. Further research or local inquiries may be necessary to confirm this detail.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has a public library that offers a range of resources and services for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable hub for learning and community engagement.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has a police station located in the town center, providing a visible presence and ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors. It offers a range of services and support to the community.
🟢 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.
Tavistock has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas. The hospital plays a crucial role in ensuring access to medical care for the community.
🟢 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.
Tavistock 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.


When deciding between Devizes and Tavistock, consider whether you prefer a town steeped in history like Devizes or a town surrounded by picturesque landscapes like Tavistock. Both offer a mix of amenities and charm, so the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and lifestyle needs.