Hitchin vs Woodbridge

Hitchin and Woodbridge are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and amenities. While Hitchin boasts a bustling market square and a vibrant arts scene, Woodbridge is known for its picturesque riverside setting and quaint boutiques.

General information

Hitchin
Woodbridge
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 :
Woodbridge is a charming market town located in Suffolk, England. With a history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, Woodbridge is known for its picturesque riverside setting, historic buildings, and vibrant community. The town offers a range of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as beautiful walks along the River Deben. Woodbridge is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience traditional English charm and explore the surrounding countryside.

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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 :
  • Woodbridge offers a strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
  • The town has excellent schools and educational opportunities for residents.
  • Woodbridge boasts a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
  • The town is well-connected with good transport links to nearby cities.
  • Residents can enjoy the beautiful countryside and riverside walks in Woodbridge.
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
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited selection of schools and educational resources
  • Lack of major tourist attractions or entertainment venues
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 :


Facts and figures

Hitchin
Woodbridge
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.
Woodbridge is a charming market town in Suffolk, known for its historic buildings, independent shops, and picturesque waterfront. With a bustling market and vibrant community, it offers a mix of amenities and attractions.
⚪ 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 Woodbridge is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population of this market town in the UK.
⚪ 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 Woodbridge is currently unknown. It is recommended to consult local real estate listings or agencies for the most up-to-date information on property 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.
Woodbridge has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, it is a relatively safe town, but residents should still take normal precautions to ensure their 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.
Woodbridge has a reputation for high-quality education, with well-performing schools and a strong sense of community involvement in the education system. The town offers a variety of educational opportunities for residents.
🟢 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 : Good.
Woodbridge offers a variety of employment opportunities both in town and in nearby cities like Ipswich. There are notable employers in the area, including healthcare facilities, schools, and retail establishments.


Geographical features

Hitchin
Woodbridge
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 : 100 feet
Woodbridge has an average elevation of approximately 100 feet above sea level, providing picturesque views and a charming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
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 : Woodbridge is located in a low-lying coastal area with some hilly regions.
Woodbridge features a mix of flat lands and gentle hills, with the town situated near the coast, providing scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
🔴 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.
Woodbridge is not a coastal town. However, it is located near the east coast of England, approximately 8 miles away from the North Sea coast.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge has the River Deben flowing through it, providing a picturesque waterfront setting for the town. The river is a focal point for recreational activities and adds to the town's charm.
⚪ 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.
Woodbridge does not have a lake within the town limits. However, the town is located near the River Deben, which offers opportunities for water activities and scenic views.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge's waterways are primarily natural, with the River Deben flowing through the town. There is no clear information available on man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals in the area.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge has experienced flooding in the past due to heavy rainfall and high tides, particularly along the River Deben. The town has implemented flood prevention measures to mitigate future risks.


Local facilities

Hitchin
Woodbridge
🟢 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 : Yes.
Woodbridge has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to rail transportation for residents and visitors. The station offers services to various destinations across the region.
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 :
Woodbridge has good transport links to other areas with easy access to major roads such as the A12 and A14. The town also has a train station with services to Ipswich and London.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Woodbridge has several primary schools, including Woodbridge Primary School and Kyson Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a high standard of education for students.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge has a secondary school called Woodbridge School, which is a co-educational independent school for students aged 11-18. It is known for its strong academic reputation and range of extracurricular activities.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge has a college called Suffolk New College, offering a range of courses for post-16 students. There is also a sixth form at Farlingaye High School, providing A-level education.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Woodbridge has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information on local attractions, events, and accommodations. It serves as a helpful resource for tourists exploring the town.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Woodbridge has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient resource for sending and receiving mail and packages.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge has a public library that provides a range of resources and services for residents and visitors to enjoy, promoting literacy and learning within the community.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge has a police station, providing essential law enforcement services to the community and ensuring public safety. Residents can rely on the station for assistance and support in times of need.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge does not have an NHS hospital within its town limits. Further research or local inquiry may be needed to determine the nearest healthcare facilities available to residents.
🟢 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.
Woodbridge does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. It is recommended to check with nearby towns or cities for access to accident and emergency services.


When choosing between Hitchin and Woodbridge, consider your preferences for urban buzz versus rural tranquility. Hitchin may appeal to those seeking a lively atmosphere and cultural events, while Woodbridge offers a more peaceful escape by the water. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize community spirit or natural beauty.