Skipton vs Market Harborough

Market Harborough and Skipton are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and community. While Market Harborough boasts a picturesque town center and vibrant local market, Skipton is known for its stunning castle and scenic location in the Yorkshire Dales.

General information

Skipton
Market Harborough
Introduction :
Skipton, known as the 'Gateway to the Dales', is a charming market town located in North Yorkshire, England. With a history dating back to the 11th century, Skipton is famous for its medieval castle, bustling market, and picturesque canal. The town offers a mix of traditional and modern amenities, including independent shops, cafes, and a vibrant community spirit. Surrounded by stunning countryside, Skipton is a popular destination for visitors seeking a quintessential English market town experience.
Introduction :
Market Harborough is a charming market town located in Leicestershire, England. With a history dating back to the 13th century, the town is known for its bustling market, historic buildings, and picturesque countryside surroundings. Visitors can explore independent shops, cafes, and restaurants in the town center, as well as enjoy leisurely walks along the Grand Union Canal. Market Harborough offers a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities for residents and tourists alike.

This website is not affiliated with any product, service or brand. Data has been gathered from a variety of sources. It is provided "as is" without warranty. Please do your own research and check with primary information sources before making decisions.

Advantages :
  • Skipton has a low crime rate, making it a safe town
  • The town offers a range of affordable housing options
  • Skipton has excellent schools and educational facilities
  • The town has a variety of amenities and leisure facilities
  • Skipton is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for outdoor activities
Advantages :
  • Market Harborough has excellent transport links, including a train station.
  • The town offers a range of affordable housing options for residents.
  • Market Harborough has low crime rates, making it a safe place to live.
  • The town boasts a selection of good schools and educational facilities.
  • Market Harborough has a variety of shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities to enjoy.
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 compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher than average crime rate
  • Limited educational opportunities
  • Lack of major tourist attractions
Points of interest :
Skipton, known as the 'Gateway to the Dales', is a charming market town in North Yorkshire. Key points of interest include Skipton Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England; the bustling Skipton Market, held four days a week; the picturesque Leeds and Liverpool Canal, perfect for leisurely walks or boat trips; the award-winning Skipton High Street, lined with independent shops and cafes; the Skipton Woods, ideal for nature walks and picnics; and the annual Skipton Waterway Festival, celebrating the town's canal heritage. Skipton also boasts a rich history dating back to the 11th century and is a popular tourist destination.
Points of interest :
Market Harborough is a charming market town in Leicestershire, known for its historic architecture, bustling market square, and independent shops. Key points of interest include the Old Grammar School, Foxton Locks, Welland Park, and the Harborough Museum. The town also hosts regular markets and events, such as the annual Food and Drink Festival. Market Harborough is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, visitors can explore the town's heritage through its various landmarks and attractions.


Facts and figures

Skipton
Market Harborough
Type : Town.
Skipton is a vibrant market town in North Yorkshire, known for its historic castle, bustling market, and picturesque surroundings. It offers a range of amenities and a strong sense of community.
Type : Town.
Market Harborough is a market town in Leicestershire, known for its historic market square and independent shops. It has a vibrant community and offers a range of amenities for residents and visitors.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Skipton is not provided or is unclear. Further research or data collection may be necessary to determine the exact population of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Market Harborough is not provided in the available data. Further research or official statistics may be needed to determine the exact population size of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Skipton 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 Market Harborough 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.
Skipton has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. Overall, it is considered a relatively safe town compared to larger urban areas. Residents are generally satisfied with the level of safety in the community.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Market Harborough has an average level of crime, with occasional incidents reported. However, overall it is considered a relatively safe town compared to others in the UK.
🟢 Education : Good.
Skipton has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, including grammar schools. The town also has a college offering further education opportunities for students.
🟢 Education : Good.
Market Harborough has a strong education system with a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as a college. The town also boasts high academic achievement and positive student outcomes.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Skipton offers a mix of employment opportunities, with a range of businesses in and around the town. While not as bustling as major cities, there are decent job prospects in various sectors.
🟢 Employment : Good.
Market Harborough offers a range of employment opportunities, with a mix of local businesses, retail outlets, and professional services. Additionally, its proximity to Leicester and Northampton provides access to further job prospects.


Geographical features

Skipton
Market Harborough
Elevation : 820 feet
Skipton is situated at an elevation of approximately 820 feet above sea level, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside and providing a unique charm to the town.
Elevation : 400 feet
Market Harborough is approximately 400 feet above sea level, providing scenic views and a unique topography for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Topology : Hilly and surrounded by countryside
Skipton is located in the Yorkshire Dales, characterized by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Topology : Market Harborough is located in a relatively flat area with some gentle rolling hills surrounding the town.
The town is situated in the Welland Valley, with the River Welland running through it. The surrounding countryside is mainly agricultural with fields and farmland.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Skipton is not a coastal town. It is located inland in North Yorkshire, approximately 40 miles away from the nearest coast, which is the North Sea coast.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Market Harborough is not a coastal town. It is located inland in Leicestershire, approximately 80 miles away from the nearest coast, which is the North Sea coast in Lincolnshire.
⚪ River : Unknown.
Skipton is located in North Yorkshire, surrounded by beautiful countryside, but it is not directly situated on a river. The nearest coast is approximately 40 miles away on the east coast of England.
🟢 River : Yes.
Market Harborough has the River Welland flowing through it, providing a picturesque waterway for residents and visitors to enjoy. The river adds to the town's charm and natural beauty.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Skipton does not have a lake within the town itself. However, the town is located near the beautiful Malham Tarn, which is approximately 10 miles away and offers stunning natural scenery for visitors to enjoy.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
Market Harborough does not have a lake within the town itself. However, there are several lakes and reservoirs in the surrounding area, such as Eyebrook Reservoir and Rutland Water, which are a short drive away.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Skipton has man-made waterways in the form of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which runs through the town and provides a picturesque setting for boating and walking activities.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Market Harborough has man-made waterways, including the Grand Union Canal and the nearby Foxton Locks, which are popular attractions for boating and leisure activities in the area.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Skipton has experienced flooding in the past, notably during Storm Desmond in 2015 which caused significant damage to properties and infrastructure in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Market Harborough has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Dennis in February 2020. The town has implemented flood prevention measures to mitigate future risks.


Local facilities

Skipton
Market Harborough
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Skipton has a train station, providing convenient access to the town and surrounding areas. The station offers regular services to destinations across the UK, making it easy to travel by rail.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Market Harborough has a train station, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. The station offers connections to various destinations, making it a key transportation hub in the area.
Transport links :
Skipton has good transport links to other areas, with the A65 providing easy access to Leeds and the M65 motorway connecting to Manchester. The town also has a train station with regular services to Leeds and Bradford.
Transport links :
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Skipton has several primary schools, including Skipton Parish Church Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary School and Water Street Community Primary School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Market Harborough has several primary schools, including Meadowdale Primary School, Little Bowden Primary School, and St. Joseph's Catholic Voluntary Academy. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Skipton has several secondary schools, including Skipton Girls' High School, Ermysted's Grammar School, and South Craven School. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Market Harborough has several secondary schools, including Welland Park Academy and Robert Smyth Academy. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 College : Yes.
Skipton has Craven College offering a range of further education courses and apprenticeships. There is also Ermysted's Grammar School and Skipton Girls' High School providing sixth form education.
🟢 College : Yes.
Market Harborough has a college called Brooksby Melton College, and there is also a 6th form at Robert Smyth Academy. Both institutions offer a range of courses and educational opportunities.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Skipton has a tourist information facility where visitors can get information about local attractions, events, accommodations, and more to enhance their experience in the town.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Market Harborough has a tourist information office located in the town, providing visitors with helpful resources and assistance for exploring the area and its attractions.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Skipton has a post office located in the town, providing postal services to residents and visitors. It is a convenient location for mailing letters and packages.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Market Harborough 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 parcels.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Skipton has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services for residents and visitors to enjoy. It is a valuable community resource for learning and leisure.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Market Harborough has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy and benefit from.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Skipton has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and support to the local community. Residents can easily access police assistance and resources when needed.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Market Harborough has a police station to serve the local community and ensure public safety. Residents and visitors can access law enforcement services and assistance when needed.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Skipton has an NHS hospital that provides healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas, offering a range of medical treatments and facilities for residents and visitors.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Market Harborough has an NHS hospital called St. Luke's Hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community. Residents have access to a range of medical facilities and treatments within the town.
⚪ A&E : Unknown.
Skipton's healthcare facilities are not specified. Further research or local inquiry is recommended to determine if the town has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Market Harborough has an NHS hospital, which includes an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to the local community and surrounding areas.


When choosing between Market Harborough and Skipton, consider your preference for a bustling market town with a strong sense of community in Market Harborough, or a picturesque town surrounded by natural beauty in Skipton. Both towns offer a delightful mix of amenities and attractions, making either a great choice for those seeking a quintessential British market town experience.