Lewes vs Stow-on-the-Wold

Lewes and Stow-on-the-Wold are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque surroundings. While Lewes boasts a rich heritage and vibrant arts scene, Stow-on-the-Wold is known for its quaint Cotswold stone buildings and traditional market square.

General information

Lewes
Stow-on-the-Wold
Introduction :
Lewes is a historic market town in East Sussex, known for its picturesque setting along the River Ouse and its charming mix of medieval and Georgian architecture. The town is famous for its annual Bonfire Night celebrations, which date back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and pubs, as well as visit landmarks like Lewes Castle and Anne of Cleves House. Lewes offers a vibrant arts scene and a strong sense of community spirit.
Introduction :
Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming market town located in the Cotswolds, known for its picturesque streets lined with historic buildings and traditional stone cottages. The town dates back to the medieval period and is famous for its biannual sheep fairs, which have been held since the 12th century. Visitors can explore the quaint shops, cafes, and galleries, as well as enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the town's elevated position.

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Advantages :
  • Lewes has a rich history and beautiful architecture to explore. - The town offers a strong sense of community and local events. - Excellent schools and educational opportunities for residents. - Convenient access to public transportation and major roadways. - Low crime rate and overall safe environment for families.
Advantages :
  • Stow-on-the-Wold has a charming and picturesque market square.
  • The town offers a variety of quaint shops and local businesses.
  • Stow-on-the-Wold is located in the heart of the Cotswolds.
  • The town has good access to public transportation links.
  • Stow-on-the-Wold has a strong sense of community and local events.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of major tourist attractions
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates compared to nearby towns
  • Limited educational facilities and opportunities
  • Overcrowding and congestion during peak tourist seasons
Points of interest :
Lewes is known for its historic architecture, including the medieval Lewes Castle and Anne of Cleves House. The town hosts the annual Lewes Bonfire Night celebrations, one of the largest in the UK, and the Lewes Farmers Market offers a variety of local produce. Visitors can explore the South Downs National Park, visit the Grange Gardens, and enjoy the scenic views from the chalk cliffs at nearby Seven Sisters. Lewes also has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and independent shops to explore. The town's rich history and picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for tourists.
Points of interest :
Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming market town in the Cotswolds known for its historic market square, lined with quaint shops, cafes, and inns. Key points of interest include St Edward's Church, a beautiful medieval church with stunning stained glass windows, and the ancient stocks on the village green. The town is also famous for its annual Gypsy Horse Fair, attracting visitors from far and wide. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside on scenic walks and enjoy traditional English pubs serving local ales and hearty meals. Stow-on-the-Wold offers a quintessential Cotswolds experience.


Facts and figures

Lewes
Stow-on-the-Wold
Type : Town.
Lewes is a historic market town in East Sussex, known for its medieval architecture, independent shops, and vibrant arts scene. It has a bustling high street and a strong sense of community.
Type : Town.
Stow-on-the-Wold is a charming market town located in the Cotswolds known for its historic buildings, quaint shops, and traditional market square. It attracts visitors with its picturesque setting and vibrant community.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Lewes 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 Stow-on-the-Wold is not readily available. Further research or contacting local authorities may be necessary to obtain this information.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Lewes 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.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Stow-on-the-Wold 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.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Lewes has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, the town is considered relatively safe, but residents should still take precautions and be aware of their surroundings.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Stow-on-the-Wold has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While crime rates are not particularly high, residents should still take standard precautions for safety.
🟢 Education : Good.
Lewes has a strong education system with well-regarded schools and high academic standards. The town also offers a variety of educational opportunities, including adult education classes and cultural programs.
🟢 Education : Good.
Stow-on-the-Wold has a strong education system with well-regarded schools and high academic standards. The town is known for its supportive community and opportunities for students to excel in various subjects.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Lewes offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a variety of businesses in the town center and surrounding areas. There are also commuting options to nearby cities like Brighton for additional job prospects.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Stow-on-the-Wold offers a mix of employment opportunities in retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors. While there are some job prospects within the town, many residents commute to larger cities like Cheltenham or Oxford for work.


Geographical features

Lewes
Stow-on-the-Wold
Elevation : 3 meters
Lewes has an average elevation of approximately 3 meters above sea level, making it a relatively low-lying town in the UK.
Elevation : 800 feet
Stow-on-the-Wold has an average elevation of approximately 800 feet above sea level, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding Cotswold countryside.
Topology : Coastal
Lewes is located near the English Channel, giving it a coastal geography with proximity to beaches and cliffs. The town also has rolling hills and valleys in its surrounding countryside.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Stow-on-the-Wold is situated in the Cotswolds, known for its picturesque rolling hills and valleys. The town itself is located on top of a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
🟢 Coastal : Yes.
Lewes is a coastal town located near the English Channel coast in East Sussex. It is known for its picturesque setting and historic charm, making it a popular destination for visitors.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Stow-on-the-Wold is not a coastal town. It is located inland in the Cotswolds, known for its picturesque countryside and historic market square. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away.
🟢 River : Yes.
Lewes has the River Ouse running through it, providing a picturesque waterfront and opportunities for riverside walks and activities. The town's historic charm is enhanced by its proximity to the river.
🔴 River : No.
Stow-on-the-Wold does not have a river running through or very near it. However, the town is located approximately 20 miles east of the River Severn, which flows into the Bristol Channel on the west coast of England.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Lewes does not have a lake within the town itself. However, the town is located near the beautiful South Downs National Park, which offers various lakes and reservoirs for outdoor activities and scenic views.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Stow-on-the-Wold does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there are several picturesque lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding Cotswolds area, such as the nearby Bourton-on-the-Water.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Lewes has man-made waterways in the form of the River Ouse, which runs through the town, providing a scenic and historically significant feature for residents and visitors to enjoy.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Stow-on-the-Wold does not have any well-known man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals. Further research may be needed to confirm the presence of any smaller-scale water features in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Lewes has experienced flooding in the past due to heavy rainfall and the overflowing of the River Ouse. Notable floods include those in 2000 and 2013, causing significant damage to the town.
⚪ Flooded : Unknown.
There is no clear information available on whether Stow-on-the-Wold has suffered flooding due to weather in the past. Further research may be needed to determine the town's history with flooding.


Local facilities

Lewes
Stow-on-the-Wold
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Lewes has a train station located in the town center, providing easy access to and from surrounding areas. The station offers regular services to destinations including Brighton, London, and Eastbourne.
⚪ Train station : Unknown.
There is no train station in Stow-on-the-Wold. The nearest train stations are Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham, both located approximately 4-5 miles away from Stow-on-the-Wold.
Transport links :
Lewes has good transport links to other areas, with the A27 providing easy access to Brighton and Eastbourne. The town also has a train station with regular services to London, Brighton, and other nearby towns.
Transport links :
Stow-on-the-Wold is well-connected by major roads including the A429 and A424, providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The M40 motorway is also within reach for longer journeys.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Lewes has several primary schools, including Southover C of E Primary School, Wallands Community Primary School, and Western Road Community Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
Primary school : .
Stow-on-the-Wold has a primary school called Stow-on-the-Wold Primary School, which provides education for children in the local area. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings in recent years.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Lewes has several secondary schools, including Priory School and Lewes Old Grammar School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Stow-on-the-Wold has one secondary school called The Cotswold School, known for its strong academic performance and positive Ofsted ratings. It offers a range of subjects and extracurricular activities for students.
🟢 College : Yes.
Lewes has a college called Sussex Downs College, offering a range of further education courses. There is also a 6th form at Priory School for students aged 16-18.
⚪ College : Unknown.
There is no clear information available about the presence of a college or 6th form in Stow-on-the-Wold. Further research may be needed to determine educational options in the town.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Lewes has a tourist information office located in the town center, where visitors can obtain maps, brochures, and information about local attractions, events, and accommodations.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Stow-on-the-Wold has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information, maps, and recommendations for exploring the town and surrounding areas.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Lewes 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.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Stow-on-the-Wold has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities for residents and visitors.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Lewes has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Stow-on-the-Wold has a public library that offers a variety of books, resources, and services for residents and visitors to enjoy. It is a valuable community resource for learning and leisure.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Lewes has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and assistance to the local community. It serves as a hub for police operations in the area.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Stow-on-the-Wold has a police station to serve the local community and ensure public safety. Residents and visitors can rely on law enforcement presence in the town.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Lewes has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas. Residents have access to medical care and facilities within the town.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Stow-on-the-Wold does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns for hospital services, but specific information on healthcare facilities in the area is unclear.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Lewes has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential medical services to the town and surrounding areas in times of urgent need.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Stow-on-the-Wold does not have an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Further research is needed to determine the nearest healthcare facilities for emergency medical care.


When choosing between Lewes and Stow-on-the-Wold, consider whether you prefer a lively cultural hub like Lewes or a tranquil, traditional town like Stow-on-the-Wold. Both towns have their own distinct charm, so the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and what kind of atmosphere you are looking for in a market town.