Dunster vs Bakewell

Bakewell and Dunster are two charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Bakewell is known for its famous Bakewell pudding, picturesque riverside setting, and historic buildings. On the other hand, Dunster boasts a stunning castle, quaint cottages, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

General information

Dunster
Bakewell
Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of Somerset, Dunster is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to medieval times. Known for its picturesque setting at the foot of Exmoor National Park, Dunster boasts a stunning castle, historic buildings, and a bustling market square. Visitors can explore the quaint shops, enjoy traditional pubs, and immerse themselves in the town's vibrant community spirit. With events throughout the year, Dunster offers a delightful blend of heritage and modern amenities.
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 :
  • Dunster Castle offers historical tours and stunning views
  • Low crime rate provides a safe environment for residents
  • Excellent schools and educational opportunities for children
  • Charming shops and local amenities cater to residents’ needs
  • Close proximity to Exmoor National Park for outdoor activities
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 public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of tourist attractions and amenities
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 :
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

Dunster
Bakewell
Type : Village.
Dunster is a picturesque village located in Somerset, UK. Known for its historic castle and charming streets, it offers a quaint and peaceful setting for residents and visitors alike.
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 Dunster is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population figure.
Population : .
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Dunster is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult local real estate listings or agencies for the most up-to-date information on property prices in the area.
⚪ 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.
Dunster has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, the town is considered safe but residents should still take normal precautions to ensure their safety.
🟡 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.
Dunster boasts a strong education system with well-performing schools and dedicated teachers. The town values education, offering a variety of extracurricular activities and resources for students to excel academically.
🟢 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.
Dunster offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and tourism-related jobs available. Residents may also commute to nearby cities like Taunton or Bristol for more diverse job options.
🟡 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

Dunster
Bakewell
Elevation : 500 feet
Dunster is situated at an elevation of approximately 500 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coast.
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 terrain
Dunster is characterized by its hilly terrain, with the village nestled in the rolling hills of Exmoor National Park. The surrounding landscape offers stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
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.
Dunster is located inland in Somerset, England. While it is not directly on the coast, it is situated relatively close to the Bristol Channel. The exact distance to the coast may vary.
🔴 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 : Yes.
Dunster has the River Avill running through it, adding to the picturesque charm of the town. The river provides a tranquil setting for locals and visitors to enjoy.
🟢 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.
Dunster does not have a lake within the town limits. However, the town is located near the beautiful Exmoor National Park, which features several lakes and reservoirs for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
⚪ 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.
Dunster's waterways are not well-documented, so it is unclear if the town has man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals. Further research may be needed to confirm this information.
⚪ 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.
Dunster has experienced flooding in the past, particularly during severe weather events such as Storm Emma in 2018. The town is situated near the River Avill, which can overflow during heavy rainfall.
🟢 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

Dunster
Bakewell
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Dunster has a train station, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. The station offers connections to nearby towns and cities, enhancing the town's accessibility and connectivity.
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 :
Dunster has good transport links to other areas, with the A39 running through the town providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The M5 motorway is also easily reachable for longer journeys.
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 : .
Dunster has a primary school called Dunster First School, which provides education for children aged 4-9. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings for its teaching and learning environment.
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.
Dunster has one secondary school called West Somerset College. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students in the town.
🟢 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.
Dunster has a college and 6th form for students to further their education. The institutions offer a range of courses and opportunities for academic and personal development.
⚪ 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.
Dunster 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.
Dunster has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility 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.
Dunster has a public library that offers a variety of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It serves as a hub for learning and exploration in the town.
🟢 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.
Dunster has a police station located in the town, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
Dunster's healthcare facilities are not explicitly stated as an NHS hospital. Further research or local inquiry is recommended to confirm the presence of an NHS hospital in the town.
⚪ 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 : Unknown.
Dunster's healthcare facilities require further verification to confirm the presence of an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Additional research is recommended for accurate information.
⚪ 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 Dunster, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences. If you prefer a culinary experience and riverside charm, Bakewell is the ideal choice. However, if you are drawn to medieval history and a lively community vibe, Dunster may be the perfect destination for you. Both towns offer a delightful taste of traditional English life, making either a wonderful choice for a visit.