Totnes vs Whitby

Totnes and Whitby are both charming market towns in the UK, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. While Totnes is known for its alternative lifestyle and thriving arts scene, Whitby boasts stunning coastal views and a rich maritime heritage.

General information

Totnes
Whitby
Introduction :
Nestled in the heart of South Devon, Totnes is a charming market town with a rich history dating back to Saxon times. Known for its vibrant community, eclectic shops, and thriving market scene, Totnes offers a unique blend of traditional charm and alternative culture. The town is also famous for its historic castle, stunning riverside views, and proximity to the beautiful Devon countryside, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
Introduction :
Whitby is a picturesque seaside town located on the northeast coast of England. Known for its historic abbey, charming cobbled streets, and stunning views of the North Sea, Whitby is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town has a rich maritime history, with connections to Captain Cook and Bram Stoker's Dracula. Whitby also boasts a vibrant fishing industry, delicious seafood restaurants, and a variety of shops and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

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Advantages :
  • Totnes has a strong sense of community and local pride. - The town offers a range of independent shops and markets. - Totnes is known for its alternative and eco-friendly lifestyle. - It has good access to public transportation and major roads. - The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and the River Dart.
Advantages :
  • Whitby has a rich history and picturesque coastal setting
  • The town offers a range of amenities and facilities for residents
  • Whitby has a lower crime rate compared to larger cities
  • The town has good schools and educational opportunities for families
  • Whitby is a popular tourist destination with plenty to see and do
Disadvantages :
  • Limited job opportunities
  • High cost of living
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High crime rate
  • Lack of major shopping facilities
Disadvantages :
  • Limited public transportation options
  • High cost of living compared to surrounding areas
  • Higher crime rates than national average
  • Limited educational opportunities compared to larger cities
  • Lack of major facilities and amenities for residents
Points of interest :
Totnes is a charming market town in Devon known for its historic architecture, independent shops, and vibrant community. Key points of interest include Totnes Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views over the town and River Dart; the unique Totnes Guildhall, a Grade I listed building dating back to the 16th century; the bustling Totnes Market, offering a variety of local produce and crafts; the picturesque River Dart, perfect for boat trips and riverside walks; and the quirky shops and cafes along the town's narrow streets. Totnes also has a reputation for its alternative lifestyle and eco-friendly initiatives.
Points of interest :
Whitby is a picturesque town on the North Yorkshire coast, known for its historic Abbey which inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. Other key points of interest include the 199 steps leading up to the Abbey, Whitby Harbour with its fishing boats and seafood restaurants, the Captain Cook Memorial Museum celebrating the famous explorer's connections to the town, Whitby Beach for seaside fun, the annual Whitby Goth Weekend attracting alternative music and fashion enthusiasts, and the Whitby Regatta, one of the oldest sea regattas in England. The town also offers charming shops, cafes, and stunning coastal walks.


Facts and figures

Totnes
Whitby
Type : Town.
Totnes is a vibrant market town in Devon, known for its independent shops, markets, and community spirit. With a rich history and picturesque surroundings, it offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities.
Type : Town.
Whitby is a historic seaside town in North Yorkshire, known for its picturesque harbour, Abbey ruins, and connections to Captain Cook and Bram Stoker's Dracula. It offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The exact population size of Totnes is currently unknown. It may vary depending on the source of information, and further research may be needed to determine an accurate figure.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The population size of Whitby is not specified in the provided information. Further research or data collection may be needed to determine the exact population of the town.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
The average house price in Totnes is currently unknown. Further research or data collection is needed to determine this information and identify any trends in the housing market in the area.
⚪ Population : Unknown.
House prices in Whitby can vary depending on the specific location, size, and condition of the property. It is recommended to research current listings and consult with local real estate agents for accurate pricing information.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Totnes has an average level of crime, with occasional reports of theft and anti-social behavior. Overall, it is a relatively safe town but residents should still take precautions to ensure their safety.
🟡 Crime : Average.
Whitby has an average level of crime, with occasional reports of petty theft and anti-social behavior. Overall, it is a relatively safe town, but residents should still take precautions.
🟢 Education : Good.
Totnes has a strong reputation for education with a range of primary and secondary schools performing well. The town also has a number of alternative education options, including Steiner and Montessori schools.
🟢 Education : Good.
Whitby offers a strong education system with well-regarded schools and a variety of educational opportunities. The town has a reputation for high academic standards and a supportive learning environment.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Totnes offers a mix of employment opportunities, including retail, hospitality, and tourism. While there are some job prospects in town, many residents commute to nearby cities like Exeter and Plymouth for work.
🟡 Employment : Average.
Whitby offers a mix of employment opportunities in various sectors such as tourism, fishing, and retail. While there are some notable employers in the area, residents may need to commute to larger cities for more diverse job options.


Geographical features

Totnes
Whitby
Elevation : 50 meters
Totnes is situated at an approximate elevation of 50 meters above sea level, offering residents and visitors a slightly elevated perspective of the surrounding countryside and River Dart.
Elevation : 187 feet
Whitby is approximately 187 feet above sea level, offering scenic views of the surrounding area and the North Sea. The town's elevation adds to its charm and character.
Topology : Totnes is situated on a hill overlooking the River Dart.
The town's geography includes steep slopes and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with the river providing a picturesque backdrop.
Topology : Coastal town with cliffs and beaches
Whitby is a picturesque coastal town situated on cliffs overlooking sandy beaches. The town is known for its stunning views of the North Sea and its rugged coastline.
🔴 Coastal : No.
Totnes is not a coastal town. It is located inland in South Devon, approximately 6 miles from the nearest coastline along the River Dart estuary.
🟢 Coastal : Yes.
Whitby is a coastal town located on the North Yorkshire coast of England. It is known for its picturesque harbor, sandy beaches, and historic abbey ruins overlooking the North Sea.
🟢 River : Yes.
The town of Totnes is located on the River Dart, with the river flowing through or very near the town center. The River Dart provides a picturesque setting for the town and offers opportunities for boating and riverside walks.
🟢 River : Yes.
The town of Whitby has the River Esk running through it, providing a picturesque waterfront and opportunities for activities like boat tours and fishing. The river adds to the charm and character of the town.
⚪ Lake : Unknown.
There is no information available about a lake in Totnes. It is recommended to further research or inquire locally for more details on any nearby lakes.
🟢 Lake : Yes.
Whitby is situated on the coast of the North Sea and is also located near the beautiful Whitby Harbour, which is connected to the North Sea. The town offers stunning views of the water and surrounding cliffs.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Totnes has man-made waterways in the form of the River Dart and the Dartington Hall estate's ornamental gardens which include a series of interconnected ponds and canals.
🟢 Water ways : Yes.
Whitby has man-made waterways in the form of reservoirs and canals. These waterways add to the town's charm and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Totnes has experienced flooding in the past, notably during the severe storms of 2014 which caused significant damage to properties and infrastructure in the town.
🟢 Flooded : Yes.
Whitby has experienced flooding in the past, notably during severe weather events such as Storm Desmond in 2015. The town is vulnerable to flooding due to its proximity to the River Esk and North Sea.


Local facilities

Totnes
Whitby
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Totnes has a train station located in the town center, providing easy access to and from other destinations in the UK. The station is served by regular services on the mainline between London and Penzance.
🟢 Train station : Yes.
Whitby has a train station located in the town center, providing convenient access to and from the town for both residents and visitors. The station offers connections to various destinations across the UK.
Transport links :
Totnes has good transport links to other areas with easy access to the A38, connecting to Plymouth and Exeter. The town also has a railway station with services to London, Plymouth, and Exeter.
Transport links :
Whitby has good transport links to other areas, with the A171 providing access to nearby towns and cities. The A169 also connects Whitby to Pickering and the North York Moors National Park.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Totnes has several primary schools, including Bridgetown Primary School and Dartington C of E Primary School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings for their teaching and learning environments.
🟢 Primary school : Yes.
Whitby has several primary schools serving the local community, including Whitby Community Primary School and Airy Hill Primary School. These schools provide education for children in the town.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Totnes has several secondary schools, including King Edward VI Community College and Dartington Hall School. Both schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 Secondary school : Yes.
Whitby has several secondary schools, including Whitby Community College and Caedmon College Whitby. These schools have received positive Ofsted ratings and offer a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities.
🟢 College : Yes.
Totnes has a college called South Devon College, offering a range of courses for students aged 16 and above. There is also a 6th form at King Edward VI Community College in the town.
🟢 College : Yes.
Whitby has a college called Whitby Sixth Form, offering post-16 education and a range of courses. It provides a pathway to higher education or employment for students in the area.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Totnes has a tourist information office located in the town center, providing visitors with helpful resources, maps, and recommendations for exploring the area and its attractions.
🟢 Tourist information : Yes.
Whitby has a tourist information facility to assist visitors with information about local attractions, events, accommodations, and more. It serves as a valuable resource for tourists exploring the town.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Totnes has a post office located in the town, providing postal services and other related services to the local residents and visitors. It is a convenient facility for sending and receiving mail.
🟢 Post office : Yes.
Whitby 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.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Totnes has a public library that offers a wide range of books, resources, and services for the community to enjoy. It is a valuable hub for learning and leisure activities.
🟢 Library : Yes.
Whitby has a public library that offers a range of books, resources, and services to the local community and visitors. It is a valuable hub for learning and leisure activities.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Totnes has a police station located in the town center, providing law enforcement services and assistance to the local community. Residents and visitors can access police support and resources in the area.
🟢 Police station : Yes.
Whitby 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 in the town.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Totnes has a community hospital that provides NHS services to residents and visitors. It offers a range of medical care and support for the local community.
🟢 Hospital : Yes.
Whitby has an NHS hospital, providing healthcare services to the local community and visitors. The hospital offers a range of medical treatments and facilities for residents in the area.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Totnes has a community hospital with an NHS minor injuries unit that provides accident and emergency services for minor injuries and illnesses. It is not a full-scale A&E department.
🟢 A&E : Yes.
Whitby has an NHS hospital with an accident and emergency department, providing essential healthcare services to residents and visitors in case of emergencies or medical needs.


When choosing between Totnes and Whitby, consider whether you prefer a bohemian atmosphere with a focus on sustainability and creativity in Totnes, or a picturesque seaside town steeped in history and tradition in Whitby. Both towns have their own distinct charm, so the right choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and interests.