Marlborough vs Tavistock

Marlborough and Tavistock are both charming market towns in the UK known for their historic architecture, vibrant local markets, and picturesque surroundings. While Marlborough boasts a strong reputation for its independent shops and proximity to the stunning Marlborough Downs, Tavistock offers a rich history with its ancient abbey and scenic location on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

General information

Marlborough
Tavistock
Introduction :
Marlborough is a historic market town located in Wiltshire, England. Known for its charming high street lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, Marlborough offers a unique shopping and dining experience. The town is also famous for its annual Marlborough Jazz Festival and boasts a rich history dating back to the 11th century. With stunning countryside surroundings and easy access to the ancient Avebury Stone Circle, Marlborough is a popular destination for visitors seeking a quintessential English market town experience.
Introduction :
Tavistock is a historic market town located in West Devon, England. With a rich history dating back to the 10th century, Tavistock is known for its bustling Pannier Market, charming architecture, and stunning natural surroundings including Dartmoor National Park. The town offers a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy, as well as a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Tavistock is a vibrant and picturesque town that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

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Advantages :
  • Marlborough offers a charming market town atmosphere with historic buildings.
  • The town has excellent schools and educational opportunities for residents.
  • Marlborough is surrounded by stunning countryside and offers great outdoor activities.
  • The town has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.
  • Marlborough has a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities for residents to enjoy.
Advantages :
  • Tavistock has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live
  • The town offers a range of educational facilities for all ages
  • Tavistock is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and countryside
  • The town has a variety of amenities and facilities for residents
  • Tavistock is a popular tourist destination with historic attractions
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited job opportunities
  • Higher crime rates compared to neighboring towns
  • Limited healthcare facilities and services
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living
  • Higher crime rates compared to surrounding areas
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of tourist attractions
Points of interest :
Points of interest :
Tavistock is a charming market town in Devon, known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Pannier Market and the ancient abbey ruins. Visitors can explore the beautiful Tavistock Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Tavy. The town is also famous for being the birthplace of Sir Francis Drake. Tavistock offers a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great destination for shopping and dining. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the town's proximity to Dartmoor National Park for hiking and exploring the stunning natural surroundings.


Facts and figures

Marlborough
Tavistock
Type : Town.
Marlborough is a historic market town in Wiltshire, known for its bustling high street, independent shops, and regular markets. With a population of around 8,500, it offers a mix of amenities and a vibrant community.
Type : Town.
Tavistock is a historic market town in Devon, known for its bustling market, independent shops, and picturesque surroundings. It offers a range of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The exact population size of Marlborough is currently unknown. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the precise number of residents in the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Tavistock is not provided in the data available for comparison. Further research may be needed to determine the exact population of this market town in the UK.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Marlborough 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.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Tavistock is currently unknown. It would be advisable to consult local real estate websites or agencies for the most up-to-date information on housing prices in the area.
Crime : .
Marlborough has low crime rates compared to other towns in the UK. The community is generally safe and there are few notable criminal incidents reported in the area.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Tavistock has an average level of crime compared to other market towns in the UK. While there are occasional incidents, overall the town is considered relatively safe for residents and visitors.
🟢 Education : Good.
Marlborough has a reputation for excellent education with a range of primary and secondary schools, including a prestigious public school. The town also has a strong sense of community support for education.
🟢 Education : Good.
Tavistock offers a high standard of education with well-regarded schools and a strong sense of community support for learning. The town has a reputation for academic excellence and a variety of educational opportunities.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Marlborough offers a range of employment opportunities both in town and in nearby cities like Swindon and Salisbury. Notable employers include Marlborough College, local shops, and businesses in various sectors.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Tavistock offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a variety of businesses and shops in the town center. Additionally, the proximity to Plymouth provides access to more diverse job options in a larger city.


Geographical features

Marlborough
Tavistock
Elevation : 110 meters
Marlborough is situated at an elevation of approximately 110 meters above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and providing a unique charm to the town.
Elevation : 850 feet
Tavistock is situated at an elevation of approximately 850 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and contributing to its unique charm and character.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Marlborough is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Topology : Rolling hills and valleys
Tavistock is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape. The town is nestled within this topography, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Marlborough is not a coastal town. The nearest coast is approximately 50 miles away to the south, towards the English Channel.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Tavistock is not a coastal town. However, it is located near the south-west coast of England, approximately 25 miles from the nearest coastline.
🟢 River : Yes.
The River Kennet flows through Marlborough, adding to the town's picturesque charm. Residents and visitors can enjoy walks along the riverbanks and appreciate the natural beauty it brings to the area.
⚪ River : Unknown.
Tavistock is not known to have a river running through or very near it. However, it is located approximately 20 miles from the south coast of England and about 40 miles from the north coast.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Marlborough does not have a lake within the town limits. However, there may be lakes or reservoirs nearby, but the exact distance is unknown.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Tavistock is not known to have a lake within the town limits. However, there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area, such as Siblyback Lake and Burrator Reservoir, which are a short drive away.
⚪ Water ways : Unknown.
Marlborough's man-made waterways such as reservoirs or canals are not well-documented. Further research or local knowledge may be needed to confirm the presence of such features in the town.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Tavistock has man-made waterways in the form of reservoirs and canals, adding to the town's charm and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Marlborough has experienced flooding in the past, particularly during severe weather events such as Storm Dennis in 2020. The River Kennet has been known to overflow, causing localized flooding in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Tavistock has experienced flooding in the past, particularly during severe weather events such as Storm Emma in 2018. The River Tavy has been known to overflow, causing localized flooding in the town.


Local facilities

Marlborough
Tavistock
Train station : .
Marlborough does not have a train station. The nearest train station is Pewsey, located about 7 miles away, which provides connections to major cities like London and Exeter.
Train station : .
Tavistock has a train station located on Station Road, providing easy access to and from the town for commuters and visitors. The station offers regular services to nearby towns and cities.
Transport links :
Marlborough has good transport links to other areas with the A346 and A4 providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. The M4 motorway is also within reach for connections to London and Bristol.
Transport links :
Tavistock has good transport links to other areas with the A386 providing access to Plymouth, the A30 connecting to Exeter and the M5 motorway, and regular bus services to surrounding towns and villages.
Primary school : .
Marlborough has several primary schools, including St. Mary's Church of England Primary School and Marlborough St. Mary's CE VC Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their academic standards.
Primary school : .
Tavistock has several primary schools, including Tavistock Community Primary School and Gulworthy Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of educational opportunities for local children.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Marlborough has one secondary school called St. John's Academy. The school has received positive Ofsted observations and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Tavistock has a secondary school called Tavistock College, which has a good reputation and offers a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
🟢 College : Yes.
Marlborough has a college called St John's Academy which offers post-16 education. The college provides a range of courses and opportunities for students to further their education and skills.
🟢 College : Yes.
Tavistock has a college, Tavistock College, which offers post-16 education. Additionally, there is a 6th form provision at the college for students to continue their studies.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Marlborough 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 area.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Tavistock has a tourist information facility where visitors can gather information about local attractions, events, and accommodations to enhance their experience in the town.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Marlborough 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 : Unknown.
There is no definitive information available regarding the presence of a post office in Tavistock. Further research or local inquiries may be necessary to confirm this detail.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Marlborough has a public library that offers a range of services and resources for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable community hub for learning and leisure activities.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Tavistock has a public library that offers a range of resources and services for residents and visitors to enjoy, providing a valuable hub for learning and community engagement.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
The Marlborough police station is located in the town center, providing a visible presence and quick response to any incidents or emergencies in the area.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Tavistock has a police station located in the town center, providing a visible presence and ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors. It offers a range of services and support to the community.
⚪ Hospital : Unknown.
Marlborough does not have an NHS hospital within the town itself. Further research is needed to determine the nearest hospital facilities available to residents in the area.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Tavistock has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the residents of the town and surrounding areas. The hospital plays a crucial role in ensuring access to medical care for the community.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Marlborough's healthcare facilities are not specified. It is recommended to check with local sources or the NHS website for up-to-date information on hospitals and emergency services in the area.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Tavistock has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community and visitors in need of urgent medical attention.


When choosing between Marlborough and Tavistock, consider whether you prefer a bustling market town with a focus on independent businesses like Marlborough or a town steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty like Tavistock. Both offer unique charms, so the right choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle.