Dorchester vs Yeovil

Dorchester and Yeovil are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Dorchester boasts a rich history and picturesque architecture, while Yeovil offers a bustling market scene and vibrant community spirit.

General information

Dorchester
Yeovil
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 Somerset, Yeovil is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to the Roman era. Known for its bustling markets, historic buildings, and picturesque countryside, Yeovil offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. With a strong sense of community and a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, Yeovil is a vibrant town that attracts visitors and residents alike.

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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 :
  • Yeovil has good access to major road networks
  • The cost of living in Yeovil is relatively affordable
  • Yeovil has lower crime rates compared to larger cities
  • There are several reputable schools and educational institutions in Yeovil
  • Yeovil offers a variety of facilities and amenities for residents and visitors
Disadvantages :
  • Limited job opportunities
  • High crime rate
  • Lack of affordable housing
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Limited shopping and entertainment facilities
Disadvantages :
  • Limited job opportunities
  • High crime rate
  • Lack of cultural activities
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Limited shopping and dining 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 :
Yeovil is a historic market town in Somerset, known for its bustling markets and charming streets. Key points of interest include the Yeovil Country Park, a beautiful green space perfect for walks and picnics, the Fleet Air Arm Museum showcasing the history of naval aviation, the Yeovil Railway Centre offering a glimpse into the town's railway heritage, and the Montacute House, a stunning Elizabethan mansion. Visitors can also explore the Yeovil Town Centre with its mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as attend events at the Octagon Theatre or take a stroll along the Yeovil Country Walk.


Facts and figures

Dorchester
Yeovil
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.
Yeovil is a bustling market town in Somerset, known for its historic buildings, vibrant markets, and cultural events. With a mix of shops, restaurants, and amenities, it offers a lively and diverse community.
⚪ 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 Yeovil is not provided in the information available for comparison of market towns in the UK. It is currently unknown.
⚪ 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 Yeovil 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.
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.
Yeovil experiences an average level of crime, with some areas seeing higher rates of theft and anti-social behavior. However, overall, the town is considered relatively safe compared to larger urban areas.
🟢 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.
Yeovil has a range of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college offering further education. The town has a reputation for high academic standards and a variety of extracurricular activities.
🟡 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.
Yeovil offers a mix of employment opportunities in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and education. While there are some notable employers in the area, residents may need to commute to larger cities for more diverse job options.


Geographical features

Dorchester
Yeovil
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 : 50 meters
Yeovil'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.
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
Yeovil is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, creating a picturesque and varied landscape in the surrounding area. This topography offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
⚪ 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.
Yeovil is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the county of Somerset, approximately 30 miles away from the nearest coastline.
⚪ 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.
Yeovil has the River Yeo running through it, providing a scenic feature and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. 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.
Yeovil does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area, such as Sutton Bingham Reservoir located about 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 : Yes.
Yeovil has man-made waterways in the form of the River Yeo, which runs through the town, as well as several reservoirs and canals that contribute to the local water supply and landscape.
🟢 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.
Yeovil has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Angus in 2016. The town has been known to suffer from flooding due to heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers.


Local facilities

Dorchester
Yeovil
🟢 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 : Yes.
Yeovil has a train station, providing convenient access to and from the town for both residents and visitors. The station is well-connected to other major cities and towns in the region.
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 :
Yeovil has good transport links to other areas with easy access to major roads such as the A303 and A37. The town also has a railway station with regular services to London, Bristol, and Exeter.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Yeovil has several primary schools, including Birchfield Community Primary School, Preston CofE Primary School, and St Gildas Catholic Primary School. Ofsted ratings vary, with some schools achieving outstanding results.
🟢 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.
Yeovil has several secondary schools, including Buckler's Mead Academy and Westfield Academy. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer 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.
Yeovil has a college called Yeovil College, offering a range of courses for students aged 16 and above. There is also a 6th form at Westfield Academy for post-16 education.
🟢 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.
Yeovil has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on attractions, accommodations, and events 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.
Yeovil has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities to the local community 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.
Yeovil has a public library that provides a range of resources and services for the community, offering books, digital resources, and various programs and events for all ages.
🟢 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.
Yeovil has a police station, providing a local law enforcement presence for the town and surrounding areas. Residents can access police services and assistance when needed.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Yeovil has an NHS hospital, Yeovil District Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas. It offers a range of medical treatments and facilities for patients in need.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Yeovil has an NHS hospital, Yeovil District Hospital, which includes an accident and emergency department to provide urgent medical care to the residents and visitors of the town.


When choosing between Dorchester and Yeovil, consider your preference for history and architecture versus a lively market atmosphere. Both towns have their own charm, so the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a market town.