Henley-on-Thames vs Pateley Bridge

Henley-on-Thames and Pateley Bridge are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. While Henley-on-Thames is known for its regatta and riverside setting, Pateley Bridge boasts stunning countryside views and traditional shops.

General information

Henley-on-Thames
Pateley Bridge
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 :
Pateley Bridge is a charming market town nestled in the heart of Nidderdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Yorkshire. With a history dating back to medieval times, the town is known for its picturesque setting, traditional stone buildings, and friendly community. Visitors can explore independent shops, cafes, and pubs, as well as enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and fishing in the surrounding countryside.

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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 :
  • Pateley Bridge has a low crime rate, making it a safe town
  • The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and landscapes
  • Pateley Bridge offers a range of facilities including shops and restaurants
  • The town has good access to nearby cities and transportation links
  • Pateley Bridge is a popular tourist destination with plenty to see
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
  • Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education
  • Limited tourist attractions and amenities
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 :
Pateley Bridge is a charming market town in North Yorkshire known for its picturesque setting in Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Key points of interest include the historic Nidderdale Museum, the stunning ruins of How Stean Gorge, the beautiful walks along the River Nidd, and the annual Nidderdale Show. Visitors can also explore the unique independent shops, cafes, and pubs in the town center, as well as enjoy the scenic drive along the Nidderdale Way. Pateley Bridge is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the Yorkshire countryside.


Facts and figures

Henley-on-Thames
Pateley Bridge
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.
Pateley Bridge is a charming market town in North Yorkshire, known for its picturesque surroundings and traditional shops. It offers a mix of amenities and a strong sense of community.
⚪ 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 Pateley Bridge is currently unknown. More research or updated data may be needed to determine the exact population figure.
🟢 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 Pateley Bridge 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 : 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.
Pateley Bridge has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While there have been some incidents, overall it is considered a relatively safe community.
🟢 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.
Pateley Bridge offers a good education system with well-performing schools and dedicated teachers. The town has a strong community focus on education, providing a supportive environment for students to thrive.
🟢 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.
Pateley Bridge offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a range of local businesses, shops, and services. While there are some job prospects within the town, residents may need to commute to nearby cities for more diverse options.


Geographical features

Henley-on-Thames
Pateley Bridge
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 : 650 feet
Pateley Bridge sits at an elevation of approximately 650 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside in the heart of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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 : Hilly and surrounded by countryside
Pateley Bridge is situated in a hilly area surrounded by picturesque countryside, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
🔴 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.
Pateley Bridge is not a coastal town. It is located inland in North Yorkshire, surrounded by picturesque countryside and the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Pateley Bridge is located near the River Nidd, which flows through the town and provides a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the charm of this market town in the heart of Nidderdale.
🟢 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.
Pateley Bridge is not known to have a lake within the town limits. However, the town is located near the picturesque Gouthwaite Reservoir, which is approximately 5 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.
Pateley Bridge has man-made waterways in the form of reservoirs, including Gouthwaite Reservoir, which provides water for the surrounding area and offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and birdwatching.
🟢 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.
Pateley Bridge has experienced flooding in the past, notably during Storm Ciara in 2020 and Storm Frank in 2015, causing damage to properties and infrastructure in the town.


Local facilities

Henley-on-Thames
Pateley Bridge
🟢 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 : Unknown.
The presence of a train station in Pateley Bridge is unclear. The nearest train station may need to be confirmed for transportation options to and from the town.
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 :
Pateley Bridge has good transport links to other areas, with the A59 providing easy access to Harrogate and Skipton. The B6265 also connects to Ripon and Grassington, making it convenient for visitors and residents to travel around the region.
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 : .
Pateley Bridge has one primary school called St. Cuthbert's Church of England Primary School. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings and serves the local community.
🟢 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.
Pateley Bridge has one secondary school called Nidderdale High School. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
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 : Unknown.
There is no specific information available about the presence of a college or 6th form in Pateley Bridge. Further research may be needed to confirm educational options in the town.
🟢 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.
Pateley Bridge has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with information on local attractions, accommodations, and events. It is a helpful resource for tourists 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.
Pateley Bridge has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient resource for mailing letters 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.
Pateley Bridge has a public library available for residents and visitors to access a wide range of books, resources, and services for learning and leisure purposes.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
There is no clear information available about the presence of a police station in Pateley Bridge. Further research or local inquiry may be necessary to confirm this.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
Pateley Bridge does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. Further research is needed to determine the nearest healthcare facilities available to residents in the area.
🟢 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 : Unknown.
Pateley Bridge does not have an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Further research is needed to determine the nearest medical facilities for emergency care in the area.


When choosing between Henley-on-Thames and Pateley Bridge, consider whether you prefer a riverside town with a lively event calendar or a picturesque village surrounded by scenic landscapes. Both towns have their own distinct charm, making either a delightful destination for those seeking a quintessential British market town experience.