Dorchester vs Uppingham

Dorchester and Uppingham are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Dorchester boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, while Uppingham is known for its picturesque streets and traditional market square.

General information

Dorchester
Uppingham
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 picturesque county of Rutland, Uppingham is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Known for its traditional market square, historic buildings, and independent shops, Uppingham offers a quintessentially English experience for visitors. The town is also home to Uppingham School, a prestigious public school founded in 1584. With its vibrant community spirit and stunning countryside surroundings, Uppingham is a must-visit destination in the UK.

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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 :
  • Uppingham has excellent schools and educational opportunities for residents
  • The town has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live
  • Uppingham offers a range of facilities including shops, restaurants, and leisure activities
  • The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for outdoor activities
  • Uppingham has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere
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
  • Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education
  • Limited tourist attractions and entertainment options
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 :
Uppingham is a charming market town in Rutland, known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Uppingham School. Visitors can explore the picturesque High Street lined with independent shops, cafes, and pubs. The town is home to the Uppingham Theatre, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year. The nearby Rutland Water offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, sailing, and birdwatching. Uppingham also has a rich history, with landmarks like the Church of St Peter and St Paul and the Uppingham Heritage Trail showcasing its heritage. The town's annual Fatstock Show is a popular event celebrating local agriculture.


Facts and figures

Dorchester
Uppingham
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.
Uppingham is a charming market town in Rutland, known for its historic architecture, independent shops, and vibrant community. With a bustling market square and a range of amenities, it offers a quintessential English town experience.
⚪ 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 : Unknown.
The population size of Uppingham is not specified in the available data. Further research or local sources may be needed to determine the exact population figure for this market town.
⚪ 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.
The average house price in Uppingham 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.
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.
Crime in Uppingham is considered average for a market town. While there are occasional incidents, overall it is a relatively safe and peaceful community. Residents are generally satisfied with the level of 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.
Uppingham has a strong reputation for education with several well-regarded schools and a focus on academic excellence. The town offers a supportive and enriching environment for students to thrive.
🟡 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.
Uppingham offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and shops in town. However, residents may need to commute to larger cities like Leicester or Peterborough for more diverse job options.


Geographical features

Dorchester
Uppingham
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 : 500 feet
Uppingham has an elevation of approximately 500 feet above sea level, providing picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and adding to its charm as a market town in the UK.
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 : Rolling hills and valleys
Uppingham is characterized by its picturesque rolling hills and valleys, creating a scenic and charming landscape for residents and visitors to enjoy.
⚪ 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.
Uppingham is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the county of Rutland, known for its picturesque countryside and historic market town charm.
⚪ 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.
Uppingham has the River Welland running through it, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for residents and visitors to enjoy.
⚪ 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.
Uppingham does not have a lake within the town itself, but there are several beautiful lakes in the surrounding area such as Rutland Water, which is approximately 6 miles away.
⚪ 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.
Uppingham's man-made waterways status is unknown. Further research is needed to determine if the town has reservoirs or canals as part of its infrastructure.
🟢 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.
Uppingham has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Ciara in 2020. The town has taken measures to mitigate future flooding risks.


Local facilities

Dorchester
Uppingham
🟢 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 : Unknown.
There is no clear information available about whether Uppingham has a train station. The nearest train station to Uppingham is likely to be Oakham Station, located approximately 6 miles away.
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 :
Uppingham has good transport links to other areas, with the A47 and A6003 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The town is also close to the A1 and M1 motorways for further travel options.
🟢 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 : .
Uppingham has a primary school called Uppingham Church of England Primary School. The school has a good Ofsted rating and offers education for children aged 4-11.
🟢 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.
Uppingham has a secondary school called Uppingham Community College. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings in recent years 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 : Yes.
Uppingham has Uppingham School, an independent boarding school with a college and sixth form. The school has a strong academic reputation and offers a range of subjects for students to study.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
There is no clear information available regarding the presence of a tourist information facility or office in Uppingham. It is recommended to check with local authorities or visit the town's official website for updated information.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
There is no clear information available about the presence of a post office in Uppingham. Further research or local inquiry may be needed to confirm the availability of postal services in the town.
🟢 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.
Uppingham has a public library available for residents and visitors to access a wide range of books, resources, and services for learning and leisure purposes.
🟢 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.
Uppingham has a police station located in the town, providing a local law enforcement presence for residents and visitors. This can offer a sense of security and support for the community.
🟢 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.
Uppingham does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. It is advisable to check nearby towns or cities for healthcare facilities and 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.
Uppingham does not have an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Further research or local inquiry may be needed to determine the nearest facility for emergency medical care.


When deciding between Dorchester and Uppingham, consider whether you prefer a town steeped in history or one with a more quaint and traditional feel. Both offer a range of amenities and a strong sense of community, making either a great choice for those seeking a quintessential market town experience.