Henley-on-Thames vs Melton Mowbray

Henley-on-Thames and Melton Mowbray are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and community. While Henley-on-Thames is known for its picturesque riverside setting and annual regatta, Melton Mowbray is famous for its delicious pork pies and traditional market square.

General information

Henley-on-Thames
Melton Mowbray
Introduction :
Nestled along the banks of the River Thames, Henley-on-Thames is a picturesque market town known for its historic charm and stunning riverside setting. Home to the world-renowned Henley Royal Regatta, the town attracts visitors from far and wide to watch rowing races on the river. With a rich history dating back to the 12th century, Henley-on-Thames offers a delightful mix of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs for visitors to explore.
Introduction :
Melton Mowbray, located in Leicestershire, is a charming market town known for its famous pork pies and Stilton cheese. With a history dating back to Roman times, Melton Mowbray offers a mix of traditional and modern amenities, including a bustling market, historic buildings, and picturesque countryside. The town is also home to annual events such as the Melton Mowbray Food Festival, showcasing the best of local produce and culinary delights.

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Advantages :
  • Henley-on-Thames offers a picturesque setting along the River Thames.
  • The town has a strong sense of community and a variety of local events.
  • Henley-on-Thames has excellent schools and educational opportunities.
  • There are plenty of recreational facilities and outdoor activities available.
  • The town is well-connected with good transport links for easy access.
Advantages :
  • Melton Mowbray has a rich history and heritage
  • The town offers a variety of local markets and shops
  • There are excellent educational facilities and schools available
  • Melton Mowbray is known for its famous pork pies
  • The town has a strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of diverse cultural and entertainment facilities
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of major tourist attractions
Points of interest :
Henley-on-Thames is known for its annual Royal Regatta, a prestigious rowing event. The town also boasts a beautiful riverside setting along the River Thames, perfect for scenic walks and boat trips. Visitors can explore the historic Henley Bridge, browse the shops and cafes on Market Place, or visit the River and Rowing Museum. Henley is home to the Kenton Theatre, one of the oldest working theatres in the UK, and the Chantry House, a Tudor building housing a local history museum. The town's charming streets and traditional pubs add to its appeal for tourists.
Points of interest :
Melton Mowbray is known for its famous pork pies and Stilton cheese. Visitors can explore the historic Melton Mowbray Market, which has been running for over 1,000 years. The town is home to the stunning St Mary's Church and the Melton Carnegie Museum, showcasing the local history and culture. For outdoor enthusiasts, Melton Country Park offers beautiful walking trails and picnic spots. The annual Melton Mowbray Food Festival attracts foodies from far and wide to sample local delicacies. The town also hosts the British Pie Awards, celebrating the best pies in the UK.


Facts and figures

Henley-on-Thames
Melton Mowbray
Type : Town.
Henley-on-Thames is a historic market town known for its picturesque setting along the River Thames. It offers a range of amenities, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors.
Type : Town.
Melton Mowbray is a market town in Leicestershire, known for its historic market square and famous pork pies. It has a bustling town center with a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Henley-on-Thames is currently unknown. It may vary over time due to factors such as migration and urban development.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Melton Mowbray is not readily available or clear. Further research or official data sources may be needed to determine the exact population size of this market town.
🟢 Population : Yes.
The average house price in Henley-on-Thames is £800,000, making it a high-end market town with properties often exceeding this figure. Prices have been steadily increasing in recent years.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Melton Mowbray is currently unknown. It is recommended to check with local real estate agents or online property websites for the most up-to-date information on housing prices in the area.
🟢 Crime : Good.
Henley-on-Thames has a relatively low crime rate compared to other towns in the UK. The community is tight-knit and there is a strong police presence, contributing to a safe environment for residents and visitors.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Melton Mowbray experiences a moderate level of crime compared to other market towns. While there are occasional incidents, overall the town is relatively safe with a strong community focus on crime prevention.
🟢 Education : Good.
Henley-on-Thames has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a renowned independent school. The town also hosts the prestigious Henley Business School, known for its quality education.
🟢 Education : Good.
Melton Mowbray 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 hosts educational events and workshops.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Henley-on-Thames offers a range of employment opportunities, with a mix of local businesses, retail shops, hospitality sector, and professional services. Additionally, its proximity to major cities like Oxford and Reading provides further job prospects.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Melton Mowbray offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a range of industries present in the town. While there are some notable employers, residents may need to commute to larger cities for certain job sectors.


Geographical features

Henley-on-Thames
Melton Mowbray
Elevation : 190 feet
Henley-on-Thames has an elevation of approximately 190 feet above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and the River Thames.
Elevation : 200 feet
Melton Mowbray has an average elevation of approximately 200 feet above sea level, providing scenic views and a slightly elevated terrain for the town.
Topology : Hilly and surrounded by countryside
Henley-on-Thames is situated in a hilly area with the town itself nestled along the River Thames. The surrounding countryside offers picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Topology : Melton Mowbray is situated on a gently rolling plain.
The town is characterized by its flat to slightly undulating terrain, making it ideal for agriculture and providing scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Henley-on-Thames is not a coastal town. It is located inland along the River Thames in Oxfordshire, known for its picturesque setting and annual regatta. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away to the south.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Melton Mowbray is not a coastal town. The nearest coast is approximately 70 miles away, with Skegness being the closest seaside town to the east and Blackpool to the west.
🟢 River : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames is situated on the River Thames, with the town center located right by the river. The river plays a significant role in the town's history, culture, and economy.
🔴 River : No.
Melton Mowbray does not have a river running through or near it. However, it is located approximately 40 miles east of the nearest coast, the North Sea.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames is situated on the banks of the River Thames, which is often referred to as a 'lake' due to its width and calm waters. The town hosts the annual Henley Royal Regatta, a prestigious rowing event.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Melton Mowbray does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area, such as Rutland Water which is approximately 15 miles away.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has man-made waterways in the form of the River Thames, which runs through the town, as well as the Henley Reach section of the river that is used for rowing events.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has man-made waterways, including the Melton Mowbray Navigation Canal which was constructed in the 1790s to transport goods to and from the town. There are also several reservoirs in the surrounding area.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as the Thames flooding in 2014 and 2020. The town is situated along the River Thames, making it vulnerable to flooding.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the heavy rainfall and storms in 2007 and 2012. The River Eye and River Wreake have been known to overflow.


Local facilities

Henley-on-Thames
Melton Mowbray
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to and from the town for both residents and visitors. The station is served by regular train services to London and other destinations.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has a train station, providing convenient access to and from the town for residents and visitors alike. The station offers connections to various destinations across the region.
Transport links :
Henley-on-Thames has good transport links to other areas, with the A4130 providing easy access to major roads such as the M4 and M40. The town also has a train station with regular services to London and other nearby towns.
Transport links :
Melton Mowbray has good transport links to other areas, with the A607 and A606 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The A46 and M1 motorway are also within reach for longer journeys.
Primary school : .
Henley-on-Thames has several primary schools, including Trinity CofE Primary School, Badgemore Primary School, and Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has several primary schools, including Brownlow Primary School, The Grove Primary School, and Swallowdale Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has multiple secondary schools, including The Henley College and Gillotts School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has several secondary schools, including John Ferneley College and Long Field Academy. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
College : .
Henley-on-Thames is home to The Henley College, offering a range of A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships. The college has received positive Ofsted ratings for its teaching and student support.
🟢 College : Yes.
Melton College offers a range of courses for students aged 16 and above, including A-levels, vocational qualifications, and apprenticeships. The college has received positive Ofsted ratings for its teaching and facilities.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on local attractions, events, and accommodations to enhance their stay in the area.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with helpful resources, maps, and recommendations for exploring the area.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility for mailing letters and packages.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Melton Mowbray 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.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a public library that offers a variety of resources and services for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable community space for learning and leisure.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services for the community. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has a police station located in the town center, providing security and law enforcement services to residents and visitors. The station offers a visible police presence in the community.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has a police station to serve the local community and ensure public safety and security in the area.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has the Townlands Hospital, which is part of the NHS. It provides a range of healthcare services to the local community, including outpatient clinics and a minor injuries unit.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has an NHS hospital providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas, ensuring residents have access to medical care and treatment when needed.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Henley-on-Thames has the Townlands Hospital which includes an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Melton Mowbray has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential medical services to the local community and surrounding areas in times of urgent need.


When choosing between Henley-on-Thames and Melton Mowbray, consider your preference for a riverside lifestyle or a culinary experience. Both towns have their own distinct charm, making it a matter of personal preference. Whether you seek a tranquil riverside retreat or a bustling market town, both Henley-on-Thames and Melton Mowbray offer a delightful taste of quintessential British life.