Dunster vs Hitchin
Please select two different options.
Dunster and Hitchin are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and community. While Dunster is known for its picturesque castle and medieval charm, Hitchin boasts a bustling market square and vibrant arts scene. Let’s explore the differences between these two delightful destinations.
General information
Dunster
Hitchin
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.
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 :
Hitchin is a charming market town located in Hertfordshire, England. With a history dating back to the 7th century, Hitchin boasts a picturesque town center filled with historic buildings, independent shops, and a bustling market that dates back to the medieval era. The town is known for its vibrant community spirit, cultural events, and beautiful green spaces, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.
Hitchin is a charming market town located in Hertfordshire, England. With a history dating back to the 7th century, Hitchin boasts a picturesque town center filled with historic buildings, independent shops, and a bustling market that dates back to the medieval era. The town is known for its vibrant community spirit, cultural events, and beautiful green spaces, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.
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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 :
- Hitchin has excellent transport links to London and other major cities
- The cost of living in Hitchin is relatively affordable compared to nearby towns
- Hitchin has low crime rates, making it a safe place to live
- The town has a range of top-rated schools and educational facilities
- Hitchin offers a variety of amenities and leisure facilities for residents and visitors alike
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
- Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural events
Points of interest :
Points of interest :
Hitchin is a charming market town in Hertfordshire, known for its historic buildings, vibrant market, and picturesque streets. Key points of interest include St. Mary's Church, a stunning example of medieval architecture, and the British Schools Museum, offering a unique insight into Victorian education. The town also boasts a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely day out. Hitchin Lavender Farm is a popular attraction during the summer months, where visitors can pick their own lavender. The town's annual Hitchin Festival showcases local talent and cultural events, adding to its appeal.
Hitchin is a charming market town in Hertfordshire, known for its historic buildings, vibrant market, and picturesque streets. Key points of interest include St. Mary's Church, a stunning example of medieval architecture, and the British Schools Museum, offering a unique insight into Victorian education. The town also boasts a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely day out. Hitchin Lavender Farm is a popular attraction during the summer months, where visitors can pick their own lavender. The town's annual Hitchin Festival showcases local talent and cultural events, adding to its appeal.
Facts and figures
Dunster
Hitchin
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.
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.
Hitchin is a historic market town in Hertfordshire, known for its charming streets, bustling market, and vibrant community. With a mix of independent shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, Hitchin offers a lively town atmosphere.
Hitchin is a historic market town in Hertfordshire, known for its charming streets, bustling market, and vibrant community. With a mix of independent shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, Hitchin offers a lively town 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.
The population size of Dunster is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population figure.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Hitchin is not specified in the provided information. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population size of the town.
The population size of Hitchin is not specified in the provided information. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population size of the town.
⚪ 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.
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.
The average house price in Hitchin 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.
The average house price in Hitchin 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.
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.
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.
Hitchin 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.
Hitchin 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.
🟢 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.
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.
Hitchin has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college offering further education opportunities. The town also has a reputation for high academic standards.
Hitchin has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college offering further education opportunities. The town also has a reputation for high academic standards.
🟡 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.
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 : Good.
Hitchin offers a range of employment opportunities with a mix of local businesses, retail shops, and professional services. Additionally, its proximity to major cities like London and Cambridge provides access to a wider job market.
Hitchin offers a range of employment opportunities with a mix of local businesses, retail shops, and professional services. Additionally, its proximity to major cities like London and Cambridge provides access to a wider job market.
Geographical features
Dunster
Hitchin
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.
Dunster is situated at an elevation of approximately 500 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coast.
Elevation : 210 feet
Hitchin has an average elevation of approximately 210 feet above sea level, providing scenic views and a unique geographical setting for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Hitchin has an average elevation of approximately 210 feet above sea level, providing scenic views and a unique geographical setting for residents and visitors to enjoy.
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.
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 and surrounded by countryside
Hitchin is characterized by its hilly terrain and is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering residents and visitors beautiful views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Hitchin is characterized by its hilly terrain and is surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering residents and visitors beautiful views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
⚪ 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.
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.
Hitchin is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Hertfordshire, approximately 50 miles north of central London and about 70 miles away from the nearest coastline on the east coast of England.
Hitchin is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Hertfordshire, approximately 50 miles north of central London and about 70 miles away from the nearest coastline on the east coast of England.
🟢 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.
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 River Hiz flows through Hitchin, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and outdoor activities, enhancing the town's appeal to residents and visitors alike.
The River Hiz flows through Hitchin, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and outdoor activities, enhancing the town's appeal to residents and visitors alike.
⚪ 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.
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.
Hitchin 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.
Hitchin 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.
⚪ 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.
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 : Yes.
Hitchin has man-made waterways in the form of the River Hiz, which flows through the town and provides a picturesque feature for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Hitchin has man-made waterways in the form of the River Hiz, which flows through the town and provides a picturesque feature for residents and visitors to enjoy.
🟢 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.
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.
Hitchin 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 flood risks.
Hitchin 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 flood risks.
Local facilities
Dunster
Hitchin
🟢 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.
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 : Yes.
Hitchin has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to London and other major cities in the region. The station offers regular services on the Great Northern line.
Hitchin has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to London and other major cities in the region. The station offers regular services on the Great Northern line.
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.
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 :
Hitchin has good transport links to other areas, with easy access to major roads such as the A1(M) and the M1. The town also has a train station with regular services to London and other nearby towns.
Hitchin has good transport links to other areas, with easy access to major roads such as the A1(M) and the M1. The town also has a train station with regular services to London and other nearby 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.
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 : Yes.
Hitchin has several primary schools, including Oughton Primary and Nursery School, Strathmore Infant and Nursery School, and Mary Exton Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
Hitchin has several primary schools, including Oughton Primary and Nursery School, Strathmore Infant and Nursery School, and Mary Exton Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 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.
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.
Hitchin has several secondary schools, including Hitchin Girls' School, Hitchin Boys' School, and The Priory School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of educational opportunities.
Hitchin has several secondary schools, including Hitchin Girls' School, Hitchin Boys' School, and The Priory School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of educational opportunities.
🟢 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.
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 : Yes.
Hitchin has both a college and a 6th form. The college is North Hertfordshire College, offering a range of courses, and the 6th form is at Hitchin Girls' School, known for its academic excellence.
Hitchin has both a college and a 6th form. The college is North Hertfordshire College, offering a range of courses, and the 6th form is at Hitchin Girls' School, known for its academic excellence.
🟢 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.
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.
Hitchin has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on attractions, events, accommodations, and more to enhance their experience in the area.
Hitchin has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on 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.
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.
Hitchin has a post office located in the town center, providing postal services such as sending mail, parcels, and handling other postal needs for residents and visitors.
Hitchin has a post office located in the town center, providing postal services such as sending mail, parcels, and handling other postal needs 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.
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.
Hitchin has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community. It is a popular destination for book lovers and those seeking knowledge and entertainment.
Hitchin has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community. It is a popular destination for book lovers and those seeking knowledge and entertainment.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Dunster has a police station located in the town, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community.
Dunster has a police station located in the town, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Hitchin has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and support to the local community for safety and security purposes.
Hitchin has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and support to the local community for safety and security purposes.
⚪ 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.
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 : Yes.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital, known as Lister Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital, known as Lister Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas.
⚪ 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.
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 : Yes.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in case of medical emergencies.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in case of medical emergencies.
When deciding between Dunster and Hitchin, consider your preference for history and architecture versus a lively market atmosphere. Dunster’s tranquil setting and historic landmarks may appeal to those seeking a peaceful retreat, while Hitchin’s bustling market and cultural events offer a more dynamic experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two towns depends on your individual preferences and interests.