Dorchester vs Bakewell

Bakewell and Dorchester are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. While Bakewell is known for its famous Bakewell pudding and picturesque setting in the Peak District, Dorchester boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times and stunning architecture.

General information

Dorchester
Bakewell
Introduction :
Dorchester, located in Dorset, England, is a historic market town with a rich heritage dating back to Roman times. Known for its charming architecture, including the iconic Maumbury Rings and the impressive Dorset County Museum, Dorchester offers a mix of traditional market stalls and modern amenities. Visitors can explore the town's connections to famous author Thomas Hardy, as well as enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside and nearby Jurassic Coast.
Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Bakewell is a charming market town known for its picturesque surroundings and rich history. Famous for its delicious Bakewell pudding, the town offers a mix of traditional market stalls, independent shops, and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the beautiful River Wye, enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside, and immerse themselves in the town's vibrant market culture. Bakewell is a must-visit destination for those seeking a quintessential English market town experience.

This website is not affiliated with any product, service or brand. Data has been gathered from a variety of sources. It is provided "as is" without warranty. Please do your own research and check with primary information sources before making decisions.

Advantages :
  • Dorchester has a rich history dating back to Roman times
  • The town offers a variety of shops and restaurants
  • Good access to public transportation and major roadways
  • Dorchester has a low crime rate compared to other towns
  • The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and historic landmarks
Advantages :
  • Bakewell is a picturesque market town in the Peak District
  • Low crime rate, making it a safe place to live
  • Excellent schools and educational facilities for families
  • Abundance of local amenities and shops for convenience
  • Popular tourist destination with historic landmarks and outdoor activities
Disadvantages :
  • Limited job opportunities
  • High crime rate
  • Lack of affordable housing
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Limited shopping and entertainment facilities
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 and activities
Points of interest :
Dorchester, located in Dorset, England, is a historic market town with many points of interest. Key attractions include the Roman Town House, Maiden Castle (one of the largest Iron Age hillforts in Europe), the Keep Military Museum, and the Dorset County Museum. The town is also known for its association with author Thomas Hardy, with sites like Hardy's Cottage and Max Gate open to visitors. Dorchester hosts a popular weekly market and offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. The town's rich history and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Dorset.
Points of interest :
Bakewell is a charming market town in Derbyshire, known for its historic buildings, picturesque streets, and stunning countryside surroundings. Key points of interest include the famous Bakewell Bridge, the historic All Saints Church, and the beautiful Bakewell Old House Museum. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the town's independent shops, cafes, and pubs, as well as trying the famous Bakewell Pudding. Bakewell is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the nearby Peak District National Park. The town also hosts a variety of events and markets throughout the year.


Facts and figures

Dorchester
Bakewell
Type : Town.
Dorchester is a historic market town located in Dorset, known for its Roman origins and charming architecture. It offers a mix of amenities, cultural attractions, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Type : Town.
Bakewell is a charming market town in Derbyshire, known for its historic buildings, picturesque surroundings, and traditional market square. It offers a range of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Dorchester is not provided or unclear. Further research or official sources may be needed to determine the exact population of the town.
Population : .
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Dorchester can vary depending on the specific location, size, and condition of the property. It is recommended to consult local real estate agents or websites for the most up-to-date information.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Bakewell can vary greatly depending on the size, location, 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.
Dorchester experiences an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. However, overall it is considered a relatively safe town compared to larger urban areas.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Bakewell 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.
🟢 Education : Good.
Dorchester offers a strong education system with reputable schools and high academic standards. The town has a variety of educational opportunities for students of all ages, contributing to a well-rounded learning experience.
🟢 Education : Good.
Bakewell offers a good education system with well-rated schools and a supportive community. Students have access to quality resources and extracurricular activities, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Dorchester offers a mix of employment opportunities, with various retail, hospitality, and healthcare positions available. Additionally, being close to major cities like Bournemouth and Southampton provides access to additional job prospects.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Bakewell offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and shops providing jobs. However, many residents may need to commute to nearby cities like Sheffield or Derby for more diverse job options.


Geographical features

Dorchester
Bakewell
Elevation : 50 meters
Dorchester's elevation above sea level is approximately 50 meters, providing a moderate height that offers scenic views and a pleasant climate for residents and visitors alike.
Elevation : 302 feet
Bakewell's elevation above sea level is approximately 302 feet, offering a picturesque setting in the Peak District with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Topology : Hilly
Dorchester is situated in a hilly area with rolling terrain and sloping landscapes, offering picturesque views and varied topography for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Topology : Hilly
Bakewell is situated in the Peak District National Park, characterized by its hilly terrain and stunning views. The town is nestled in a valley alongside the River Wye, surrounded by rolling hills.
⚪ Coastal : Unknown.
Dorchester is located inland in the county of Dorset, so it is not a coastal town. However, it is relatively close to the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site known for its stunning coastline.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Bakewell is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the Peak District National Park in Derbyshire, surrounded by picturesque countryside and the River Wye.
⚪ River : Unknown.
Dorchester does not have a river running through it, but it is located approximately 10 miles inland from the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site known for its stunning cliffs and beaches.
🟢 River : Yes.
The town of Bakewell has the River Wye flowing through it, providing a picturesque waterfront for residents and visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Dorchester does not have a lake within the town limits, but there may be lakes nearby. Further research is needed to determine the distance to the nearest lake from Dorchester.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Bakewell does not have a lake within the town itself, but there are several beautiful lakes in the Peak District National Park nearby, such as Ladybower Reservoir and Carsington Water.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Dorchester's man-made waterways are not well-documented. Further research is needed to determine if the town has reservoirs or canals.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Bakewell's man-made waterways are not well-documented. Further research is needed to determine if the town has reservoirs or canals.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Dorchester has experienced flooding in the past due to heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers, such as during Storm Angus in 2016. The town is susceptible to flooding in low-lying areas.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Bakewell has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the heavy rainfall and storms in 2007 which caused significant damage to properties and infrastructure in the town.


Local facilities

Dorchester
Bakewell
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Dorchester has a train station located in the town center, providing easy access to other destinations in the UK. It is a convenient transportation option for residents and visitors alike.
Train station : .
Bakewell has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access for visitors and residents to travel to nearby areas such as Matlock and Buxton.
Transport links :
Dorchester has good transport links to other areas in the UK. It is situated near major roads such as the A35 and A37, providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The A35 also connects to the M27 motorway for further travel options.
Transport links :
Bakewell has good transport links to other areas with easy access to major roads such as the A6 and A619. The town is also close to the M1 motorway, providing connections to nearby cities and towns.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Dorchester has several primary schools, including Manor Park CE VC First School, St. Mary's Catholic First School, and Damers First School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their teaching and facilities.
Primary school : .
Bakewell has a primary school called Bakewell Church of England Infant School, providing education for young children in the town. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings in recent years.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Dorchester has several secondary schools, including The Thomas Hardye School and The Dorchester Middle School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Bakewell has one secondary school called Lady Manners School, which has a good Ofsted rating and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 College : Yes.
Dorchester has The Thomas Hardye School, which includes a sixth form college. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings and offers a range of academic and vocational courses for students.
⚪ College : Unknown.
There is no specific information available about the presence of a college or 6th form in Bakewell. Further research or local inquiries may be needed to confirm this information.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Dorchester has a tourist information facility where visitors can obtain information about local attractions, events, and accommodations to enhance their experience in the town.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Bakewell 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.
There is a post office in Dorchester, providing postal services to residents and visitors in the town. It is a convenient location for sending and receiving mail and packages.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Bakewell has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities for residents and visitors.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Dorchester has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy and benefit from.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Bakewell 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.
The Dorchester police station is located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and support to the local community. Residents can easily access police assistance when needed.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Bakewell has a police station located in the town center, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community and visitors.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Dorchester has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the town's residents and surrounding areas. The hospital plays a crucial role in the local community's healthcare needs.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Bakewell does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. It is recommended to check nearby towns for healthcare services.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Dorchester has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential medical services to the town and surrounding areas in times of urgent need.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Bakewell's healthcare facilities may include a hospital with an accident and emergency department, but specific information on an NHS hospital in the town is not readily available. Further research is recommended.


When choosing between Bakewell and Dorchester, consider whether you prefer a quaint countryside escape or a town steeped in history. Both offer a delightful experience, but ultimately the decision comes down to whether you crave the tranquility of Bakewell or the historical intrigue of Dorchester.