Helmsley vs Bury St Edmunds

Bury St Edmunds and Helmsley are both charming market towns in the UK known for their historic architecture and picturesque surroundings. While Bury St Edmunds boasts a rich history dating back to the medieval times, Helmsley offers a more tranquil setting nestled in the North York Moors National Park.

General information

Helmsley
Bury St Edmunds
Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire, Helmsley is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to medieval times. Known for its picturesque surroundings, including the stunning ruins of Helmsley Castle and the peaceful River Rye, the town offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Visitors can explore the quaint shops, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant community atmosphere that defines Helmsley.
Introduction :
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town in Suffolk, England, known for its picturesque medieval architecture and rich heritage. The town dates back to the Saxon era and is home to the impressive St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Abbey Gardens, and a bustling market that has been operating for over a thousand years. Visitors can explore the town's charming streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

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Advantages :
  • Helmsley has a low crime rate, making it a safe town
  • The town offers a range of facilities for residents and visitors
  • Helmsley has a strong sense of community and local pride
  • The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and scenic views
  • Helmsley has good access to education and healthcare facilities
Advantages :
  • Bury St Edmunds has a rich history dating back centuries.
  • The town offers a variety of cultural attractions and events.
  • Bury St Edmunds has good transport links to other major cities.
  • The town has a range of educational facilities and schools.
  • Bury St Edmunds has a vibrant market and shopping scene.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Above average crime rate
  • Lack of top-rated schools
  • Limited recreational facilities
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities beyond secondary level
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or cultural events
Points of interest :
Helmsley is a charming market town in North Yorkshire known for its historic attractions such as Helmsley Castle and Duncombe Park. Visitors can explore the picturesque Helmsley Walled Garden, enjoy scenic walks in the surrounding countryside, and browse the local shops and cafes. The town also hosts regular markets and events, showcasing local produce and crafts. Helmsley is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and fishing in the nearby North York Moors National Park. The town's rich history and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination in Yorkshire.
Points of interest :
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town in Suffolk, known for its stunning cathedral, Abbey Gardens, and medieval architecture. Visitors can explore the ruins of the 11th-century Abbey of St Edmund, enjoy a show at the Theatre Royal, or take a stroll along the charming streets lined with independent shops and cafes. The town also hosts a popular Christmas market and the annual Bury St Edmunds Festival. History buffs can delve into the town's past at the Moyse's Hall Museum, while beer enthusiasts can tour the Greene King Brewery. Bury St Edmunds offers a mix of culture, history, and charm.


Facts and figures

Helmsley
Bury St Edmunds
Type : Town.
Helmsley is a charming market town in North Yorkshire, UK. Known for its historic buildings, picturesque surroundings, and vibrant market square, Helmsley offers a range of amenities and a strong sense of community.
Type : Town.
Bury St Edmunds is a historic market town in Suffolk, known for its medieval architecture, bustling market, and cultural attractions. It offers a mix of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Helmsley is unknown and not readily available for comparison with other market towns in the UK.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Bury St Edmunds is not provided in the information available for comparison on market towns in the UK. Further research may be needed to determine the exact population figure.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Helmsley vary depending on the type of property and location within the town. It is recommended to consult local real estate listings or agents for accurate pricing information.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Bury St Edmunds 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.
Crime in Helmsley is relatively low compared to larger towns, but there have been occasional incidents of theft and vandalism. The community is vigilant and works together to maintain safety.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Bury St Edmunds has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While there have been some incidents, overall the town is considered relatively safe.
🟢 Education : Good.
Helmsley offers a high standard of education with well-equipped schools and dedicated teachers. The town has a strong focus on academic achievement and provides a supportive learning environment for students.
🟢 Education : Good.
Bury St Edmunds has a strong education system with a variety of schools and colleges offering high-quality education. The town has a reputation for academic excellence and a supportive learning environment.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Helmsley offers a variety of employment opportunities both in town and in nearby major cities. There are notable employers in the area, providing a strong job market for residents.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Bury St Edmunds offers a range of employment opportunities both in town and within commuting distance to major cities like Cambridge and Ipswich. Notable employers include British Sugar, Greene King, and West Suffolk Council.


Geographical features

Helmsley
Bury St Edmunds
Elevation : 200 meters
Helmsley is situated at an elevation of approximately 200 meters above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Elevation : 50 meters
Bury St Edmunds has an average elevation of approximately 50 meters above sea level, providing a scenic view of the surrounding area and contributing to its unique charm.
Topology : Hilly
Helmsley is located in the hilly region of the North York Moors National Park, offering picturesque views and challenging terrain for outdoor enthusiasts.
Topology : Bury St Edmunds is located on relatively flat terrain with some gentle slopes.
The general geographic topology of Bury St Edmunds is characterized by flat land with occasional slight inclines, providing a relatively easy landscape to navigate.
⚪ Coastal : Unknown.
Helmsley is located inland in North Yorkshire, so it is not a coastal town. The distance to the nearest coast would depend on which direction you travel from Helmsley.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Bury St Edmunds is not a coastal town. The nearest coast is approximately 40 miles away to the east, with popular seaside destinations such as Felixstowe and Aldeburgh within reach.
🟢 River : Yes.
Helmsley has the River Rye flowing through it, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy while exploring the town's historic attractions and natural beauty.
🟢 River : Yes.
The River Lark flows through Bury St Edmunds, providing a picturesque feature to the town. The river is a popular spot for leisure activities and adds to the town's charm.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Helmsley is situated near the picturesque Lake Gormire, a tranquil and scenic spot perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying nature. The lake is approximately 6 miles away from the town center.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Bury St Edmunds does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there may be lakes or bodies of water in the surrounding areas, but the exact distance is unknown.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Helmsley's man-made waterways status is currently unknown. Further research is needed to determine if the town has reservoirs or canals as part of its infrastructure.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Bury St Edmunds does not have significant man-made waterways like reservoirs or canals. Further research is needed to confirm the presence of any smaller water features in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Helmsley has experienced flooding in the past due to heavy rainfall and overflowing rivers. The town has faced challenges during severe weather events, causing damage to properties and infrastructure.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Ciara in 2020. The town is susceptible to flooding due to its proximity to the River Lark.


Local facilities

Helmsley
Bury St Edmunds
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Helmsley has a train station, providing convenient access for residents and visitors. The station offers connections to other towns and cities, making travel easy and efficient.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to and from the town for both residents and visitors. The station offers regular services to various destinations.
Transport links :
Helmsley has good transport links to other areas with easy access to major roads such as the A170 and A19. The town is also close to the A1(M) motorway, providing convenient connections to nearby cities and towns.
Transport links :
Bury St Edmunds has good transport links to other areas, with the A14 running nearby providing easy access to Cambridge and Ipswich. The town also has a train station with direct services to London and Norwich.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Helmsley has a primary school called Helmsley Community Primary School, providing education for young children in the town. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings for its teaching and facilities.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has several primary schools, including St Edmundsbury Church of England Primary School and Guildhall Feoffment Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Helmsley has a secondary school called Ryedale School, which serves the town and surrounding areas. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has several secondary schools, including King Edward VI School, County Upper School, and St Benedict's Catholic School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 College : Yes.
Helmsley has a college and a 6th form, providing educational opportunities for students in the town and surrounding areas. The institutions offer a range of courses and support services.
College : .
Bury St Edmunds has a college and a 6th form. West Suffolk College offers a range of courses and programs for students looking to further their education in the town.
Tourist information : .
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a tourist information center located in the town, providing visitors with helpful resources, maps, and assistance for exploring the area and its attractions.
⚪ Post office : Unknown.
Helmsley's post office status is unclear. Further research or local inquiry is recommended to confirm the presence of a post office in the town.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a post office located in the town center, providing postal services such as sending mail, parcels, and purchasing stamps for residents and visitors.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Helmsley has a public library available for residents and visitors to enjoy. It serves as a valuable resource for literature, research, and community events in the town.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services to the local community, making it a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Helmsley has a police station located in the town, providing security and law enforcement services to residents and visitors. It serves as a vital resource for maintaining public safety in the area.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has a police station located in the town center, providing security and law enforcement services to the local community and visitors.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Helmsley's healthcare facilities are not explicitly stated to include an NHS hospital. Further research or local inquiry is recommended to confirm the presence of such a facility in the town.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has an NHS hospital called West Suffolk Hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Helmsley's healthcare facilities are not specified. Further research or local inquiries are recommended to determine if the town has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Bury St Edmunds has an NHS hospital, West Suffolk Hospital, which includes an accident and emergency department to provide emergency medical care to residents and visitors in the area.


When deciding between Bury St Edmunds and Helmsley, consider whether you prefer a bustling town with a deep-rooted history or a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty. Both towns offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences, so the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you value in a destination.