Henley-on-Thames vs Whitby

Henley-on-Thames and Whitby are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique set of attractions and characteristics. Henley-on-Thames is known for its picturesque riverside setting and annual regatta, while Whitby boasts stunning coastal views and a rich maritime history.

General information

Henley-on-Thames
Whitby
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 :
Whitby is a picturesque seaside town located on the northeast coast of England. Known for its historic abbey, charming cobbled streets, and stunning views of the North Sea, Whitby is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town has a rich maritime history, with connections to Captain Cook and Bram Stoker's Dracula. Whitby also boasts a vibrant fishing industry, delicious seafood restaurants, and a variety of shops and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

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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 :
  • Whitby has a rich history and picturesque coastal setting
  • The town offers a range of amenities and facilities for residents
  • Whitby has a lower crime rate compared to larger cities
  • The town has good schools and educational opportunities for families
  • Whitby is a popular tourist destination with plenty to see and do
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 compared to larger cities
  • Lack of major facilities and amenities for residents
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 :
Whitby is a picturesque town on the North Yorkshire coast, known for its historic Abbey which inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. Other key points of interest include the 199 steps leading up to the Abbey, Whitby Harbour with its fishing boats and seafood restaurants, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum celebrating the famous explorer's connections to the town, Whitby Beach for seaside fun, the annual Whitby Goth Weekend attracting alternative music and fashion enthusiasts, and the Whitby Regatta, one of the oldest sea regattas in England. The town also offers charming shops, cafes, and stunning coastal walks.


Facts and figures

Henley-on-Thames
Whitby
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.
Whitby is a historic seaside town in North Yorkshire, known for its picturesque harbour, Abbey ruins, and connections to Captain Cook and Bram Stoker's Dracula. It offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities.
⚪ 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 Whitby is not specified in the provided information. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population of the 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.
House prices in Whitby can vary depending on the specific location, size, and condition of the property. It is recommended to research current listings and consult with local real estate agents for accurate pricing information.
🟢 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.
Whitby has an average level of crime, with occasional reports of petty theft and anti-social behavior. Overall, it is a relatively safe town, but residents should still take precautions.
🟢 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.
Whitby offers a strong education system with well-regarded schools and a variety of educational opportunities. The town has a reputation for high academic standards and a supportive learning environment.
🟢 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.
Whitby offers a mix of employment opportunities in various sectors such as tourism, fishing, and retail. While there are some notable employers in the area, residents may need to commute to larger cities for more diverse job options.


Geographical features

Henley-on-Thames
Whitby
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 : 187 feet
Whitby is approximately 187 feet above sea level, offering scenic views of the surrounding area and the North Sea. The town's elevation adds to its charm and character.
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 : Coastal town with cliffs and beaches
Whitby is a picturesque coastal town situated on cliffs overlooking sandy beaches. The town is known for its stunning views of the North Sea and its rugged coastline.
🔴 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 : Yes.
Whitby is a coastal town located on the North Yorkshire coast of England. It is known for its picturesque harbor, sandy beaches, and historic abbey ruins overlooking the North Sea.
🟢 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.
The town of Whitby has the River Esk running through it, providing a picturesque waterfront and opportunities for activities like boat tours and fishing. The river adds to the charm and character of the town.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Whitby is situated on the coast of the North Sea and is also located near the beautiful Whitby Harbour, which is connected to the North Sea. The town offers stunning views of the water and surrounding cliffs.
🟢 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.
Whitby has man-made waterways in the form of reservoirs and canals. These waterways add to the town's charm and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 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.
Whitby has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Desmond in 2015. The town is vulnerable to flooding due to its proximity to the River Esk and North Sea.


Local facilities

Henley-on-Thames
Whitby
🟢 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.
Whitby 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 connections to various destinations across the UK.
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 :
Whitby has good transport links to other areas, with the A171 providing access to nearby towns and cities. The A169 also connects Whitby to Pickering and the North York Moors National Park.
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.
Whitby has several primary schools serving the local community, including Whitby Community Primary School and Airy Hill Primary School. These schools provide education for children in the town.
🟢 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.
Whitby has several secondary schools, including Whitby Community College and Caedmon College Whitby. 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.
Whitby has a college called Whitby Sixth Form, offering post-16 education and a range of courses. It provides a pathway to higher education or employment for students in the area.
🟢 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.
Whitby has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information about local attractions, events, accommodations, and more. It serves as a valuable resource for tourists exploring the town.
🟢 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.
Whitby 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.
Whitby has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services to the local community and visitors. It is a valuable hub for learning and leisure activities.
🟢 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.
Whitby has a police station to serve the local community and ensure public safety. Residents and visitors can access law enforcement services and assistance when needed in the town.
🟢 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.
Whitby has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and visitors. The hospital offers a range of medical treatments and facilities for 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 : Yes.
Whitby has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in case of emergencies or medical needs.


When choosing between Henley-on-Thames and Whitby, consider whether you prefer a riverside town with a focus on boating and rowing, or a coastal town with a strong maritime heritage. Both towns offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making either choice a wonderful destination for a visit or to call home.