Marlborough vs Thame

Marlborough and Thame are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and community spirit. While Marlborough boasts a rich heritage and stunning countryside surroundings, Thame is known for its picturesque architecture and vibrant local market scene.

General information

Marlborough
Thame
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 :
Thame is a charming market town located in Oxfordshire, England. With a history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, Thame boasts a picturesque town center filled with historic buildings, independent shops, and a vibrant market. The town is known for its annual Thame Show, a popular agricultural event that attracts visitors from far and wide. With its rich history and bustling market scene, Thame is a must-visit destination in the UK.

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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 :
  • Thame has a low crime rate, making it a safe town
  • The town offers excellent educational facilities and schools
  • Thame is easily accessible by road and public transport
  • The town has a variety of amenities and shopping options
  • Thame’s historic architecture and picturesque surroundings attract tourists
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 make commuting difficult.
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas.
  • Higher crime rates than national average.
  • Limited educational opportunities for higher education.
  • Lack of tourist attractions and amenities.
Points of interest :
Points of interest :
Thame is a charming market town in Oxfordshire, known for its historic architecture, including the 15th-century St. Mary's Church and the picturesque Thame High Street. The town hosts a popular weekly market, offering a variety of local produce and goods. Thame is also home to the annual Thame Food Festival, showcasing the best of local food and drink. Visitors can explore the town's rich history at the Thame Museum or enjoy a leisurely walk along the Phoenix Trail, a former railway line turned scenic walking route. Other points of interest include the historic Thame Park and the beautiful Cuttle Brook Nature Reserve.


Facts and figures

Marlborough
Thame
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.
Thame is a vibrant market town in Oxfordshire, known for its historic architecture, weekly markets, and independent shops. It offers a mix of amenities and a strong sense of community.
⚪ 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 Thame 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 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 Thame 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 : .
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.
Thame has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, the town is considered safe but residents should still take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
🟢 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.
Thame has a strong educational system with reputable schools and high academic standards. The town also offers a variety of educational opportunities for all ages, making it an attractive place for families.
🟢 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.
Thame offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a range of local businesses, shops, and services. Additionally, its proximity to Oxford and Aylesbury provides access to further job opportunities in larger cities.


Geographical features

Marlborough
Thame
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 : 302 feet
Thame is approximately 302 feet above sea level, offering a picturesque setting with gentle elevation for residents and visitors to enjoy.
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 : Thame is located in a valley surrounded by low hills.
Thame is situated in a valley with gentle hills surrounding the town, providing a picturesque and sheltered setting for the area.
🔴 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.
Thame is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Oxfordshire, approximately 50 miles northwest of London. The town is known for its historic market and traditional architecture.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Thame has the River Thame running through it, adding to the town's picturesque charm and providing a tranquil setting for residents and visitors to enjoy.
⚪ 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.
Thame does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there are several lakes and reservoirs within a short driving distance, such as Horseshoe Lake and College Lake.
⚪ 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.
Thame has man-made waterways in the form of the Thame Reservoir, providing a scenic and recreational area for locals and visitors to enjoy. The reservoir adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
🟢 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.
Thame has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the severe floods of 2007 which affected many parts of the UK, including this town.


Local facilities

Marlborough
Thame
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 : Yes.
Thame has a train station called Thame railway station, providing connections to London Marylebone, Oxford, and other nearby towns. It is located in the town center, making it convenient for residents and visitors.
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 :
Thame has good transport links to other areas with easy access to major roads including the M40 motorway. The town is also served by regular bus services connecting to nearby towns and cities.
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 : .
Thame has several primary schools, including Barley Hill Primary School and John Hampden Primary School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a high standard of education.
🟢 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.
Thame has one secondary school called Lord Williams's School, which has a good Ofsted rating 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.
Thame has a college and a 6th form. The college offers a range of courses and the 6th form provides A-level education for students in the area.
🟢 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.
Thame has a tourist information facility located in the town center, providing visitors with helpful guides, maps, and information about local attractions, events, and accommodations.
🟢 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 : Yes.
Thame has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities for the local community and visitors.
🟢 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.
Thame has a public library that offers a variety of resources and services for the community, including books, digital resources, and events for all ages.
🟢 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.
Thame has a police station located in the town center, providing local law enforcement services and support to the community. Residents can access police assistance and resources easily.
⚪ 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.
Thame has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas. Residents can access a range of medical treatments and facilities within the town.
⚪ 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 : Unknown.
Thame does not have an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department. Further research is needed to determine the nearest facility for emergency medical care.


When choosing between Marlborough and Thame, consider whether you prefer a tranquil rural setting or a bustling market town atmosphere. Both towns have their own distinct appeal, so the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of lifestyle you are looking for. Whichever town you choose, you are sure to find a welcoming community and a range of amenities to enjoy.