Hitchin vs Uppingham

Hitchin and Uppingham are both charming market towns in the UK, each with its own unique character and attractions. Hitchin boasts a historic town center with a vibrant market and a range of independent shops, while Uppingham offers a picturesque setting with traditional stone buildings and a strong sense of community.

General information

Hitchin
Uppingham
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.
Introduction :
Nestled in the picturesque county of Rutland, Uppingham is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Known for its traditional market square, historic buildings, and independent shops, Uppingham offers a quintessentially English experience for visitors. The town is also home to Uppingham School, a prestigious public school founded in 1584. With its vibrant community spirit and stunning countryside surroundings, Uppingham is a must-visit destination in the UK.

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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
Advantages :
  • Uppingham has excellent schools and educational opportunities for residents
  • The town has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live
  • Uppingham offers a range of facilities including shops, restaurants, and leisure activities
  • The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for outdoor activities
  • Uppingham has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere
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
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 entertainment options
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.
Points of interest :
Uppingham is a charming market town in Rutland, known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Uppingham School. Visitors can explore the picturesque High Street lined with independent shops, cafes, and pubs. The town is home to the Uppingham Theatre, hosting a variety of performances throughout the year. The nearby Rutland Water offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, sailing, and birdwatching. Uppingham also has a rich history, with landmarks like the Church of St Peter and St Paul and the Uppingham Heritage Trail showcasing its heritage. The town's annual Fatstock Show is a popular event celebrating local agriculture.


Facts and figures

Hitchin
Uppingham
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.
Type : Town.
Uppingham is a charming market town in Rutland, known for its historic architecture, independent shops, and vibrant community. With a bustling market square and a range of amenities, it offers a quintessential English town experience.
⚪ 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.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Uppingham is not specified in the available data. Further research or local sources may be needed to determine the exact population figure for this market town.
⚪ 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.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Uppingham 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.
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.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Crime in Uppingham is considered average for a market town. While there are occasional incidents, overall it is a relatively safe and peaceful community. Residents are generally satisfied with the level of safety.
🟢 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.
🟢 Education : Good.
Uppingham has a strong reputation for education with several well-regarded schools and a focus on academic excellence. The town offers a supportive and enriching environment for students to thrive.
🟢 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.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Uppingham offers a mix of employment opportunities, with some local businesses and shops in town. However, residents may need to commute to larger cities like Leicester or Peterborough for more diverse job options.


Geographical features

Hitchin
Uppingham
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.
Elevation : 500 feet
Uppingham has an elevation of approximately 500 feet above sea level, providing picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and adding to its charm as a market town in the UK.
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.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Uppingham is characterized by its picturesque rolling hills and valleys, creating a scenic and charming landscape for residents and visitors to enjoy.
🔴 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.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Uppingham is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the county of Rutland, known for its picturesque countryside and historic market town charm.
🟢 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.
🟢 River : Yes.
Uppingham has the River Welland running through it, adding to the town's picturesque charm. The river provides a tranquil setting for residents and visitors 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.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Uppingham does not have a lake within the town itself, but there are several beautiful lakes in the surrounding area such as Rutland Water, which is approximately 6 miles away.
🟢 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.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Uppingham's man-made waterways status is unknown. Further research is needed to determine if the town has reservoirs or canals as part of its infrastructure.
🟢 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.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Uppingham 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 flooding risks.


Local facilities

Hitchin
Uppingham
🟢 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.
⚪ Train station : Unknown.
There is no clear information available about whether Uppingham has a train station. The nearest train station to Uppingham is likely to be Oakham Station, located approximately 6 miles away.
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.
Transport links :
Uppingham has good transport links to other areas, with the A47 and A6003 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The town is also close to the A1 and M1 motorways for further travel options.
🟢 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.
Primary school : .
Uppingham has a primary school called Uppingham Church of England Primary School. The school has a good Ofsted rating and offers education for children aged 4-11.
🟢 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.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Uppingham has a secondary school called Uppingham Community College. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings in recent years and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 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.
🟢 College : Yes.
Uppingham has Uppingham School, an independent boarding school with a college and sixth form. The school has a strong academic reputation and offers a range of subjects for students to study.
🟢 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.
⚪ Tourist information : Unknown.
There is no clear information available regarding the presence of a tourist information facility or office in Uppingham. It is recommended to check with local authorities or visit the town's official website for updated information.
🟢 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.
⚪ Post office : Unknown.
There is no clear information available about the presence of a post office in Uppingham. Further research or local inquiry may be needed to confirm the availability of postal services 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.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Uppingham 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.
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.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Uppingham has a police station located in the town, providing a local law enforcement presence for residents and visitors. This can offer a sense of security and support for the community.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Hitchin has an NHS hospital, known as Lister Hospital, which provides healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Uppingham does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. It is advisable to check nearby towns or cities for healthcare facilities and services.
🟢 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.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Uppingham does not have an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Further research or local inquiry may be needed to determine the nearest facility for emergency medical care.


When choosing between Hitchin and Uppingham, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Hitchin may appeal to those looking for a bustling market town with a variety of amenities, while Uppingham offers a more tranquil and traditional setting. Both towns have their own charm and attractions, making either a great choice for those seeking a quintessential British market town experience.