Thame vs Market Harborough

Market Harborough and Thame are both charming market towns in the UK known for their historic architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant community spirit. While Market Harborough boasts a picturesque canal and a wide range of independent shops, Thame is famous for its annual food festival and beautiful countryside surroundings.

General information

Thame
Market Harborough
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.
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.

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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
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 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.
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 :
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.
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

Thame
Market Harborough
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.
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 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 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 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.
⚪ 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.
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.
🟡 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.
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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

Thame
Market Harborough
Elevation : 302 feet
Thame is approximately 302 feet above sea level, offering a picturesque setting with gentle elevation for residents and visitors to enjoy.
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 : 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.
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.
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.
🔴 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 : 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.
🟢 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.
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.
⚪ 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.
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.
🟢 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.
Thame has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the severe floods of 2007 which affected many parts of the UK, including this 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

Thame
Market Harborough
🟢 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.
🟢 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 :
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.
Transport links :
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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.
Thame has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related amenities for the local community and visitors.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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.
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.
🟢 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 Thame, consider your preferences for shopping, outdoor activities, and community events. Both towns offer a unique blend of history and modern amenities, making them ideal destinations for those seeking a quintessential market town experience.