Chippenham City Guide

About Chippenham – History and Culture

Chippenham, nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, is a historic market town with roots stretching back to the Saxon era. It first rose to prominence in 878 AD when it appears in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle as a royal burgh. The town’s strategic location on the River Avon made it a vital trading hub. During the medieval period, Chippenham prospered as a cloth and wool centre, with its market charter granted by King John in 1205, a tradition that continues to this day.

The town saw further growth during the Industrial Revolution, with the arrival of the Great Western Railway in 1841, cementing its role as a transport junction. Chippenham was also a centre for agricultural engineering by firms such as Blackmore’s. The 20th century brought expansion, with new housing estates and the development of modern industries, including businesses in aerospace and logistics.

Today, Chippenham is a thriving community that blends its rich heritage with contemporary life. It is known for events like the Folk Festival and for its strong local identity. The town centre features a mix of historic buildings, including the beautiful Town Hall and the 15th-century St. Andrew’s Church, reflecting a proud cultural legacy that residents cherish.

• Chippenham town council maintains the historic Market Place.
• The annual Chippenham Folk Festival attracts international performers.
• St. Andrew’s Church is a Grade II* listed building with a prominent spire.
• Chippenham Museum offers exhibits from prehistoric to modern times.
• The town’s library, built in 1905, is a Carnegie library.
• Chippenham was a filming location for the 1995 BBC adaptation of 'Pride and Prejudice'.
• The Buttercross in the market square is a 13th-century market cross.
• The town has several blue plaques commemorating notable figures.

Did You Know? – Facts about Chippenham

Chippenham is a town of depth and character, full of surprising anecdotes and records. From its Saxon origins to its modern-day events, the town offers a unique blend of the ancient and the contemporary. Many visitors are surprised by the beauty of its countryside setting and the warmth of its community.

The town’s identity is shaped by its role as a market centre and its location on the Avon. Its folk festival is a major cultural highlight, and its green spaces are perfect for relaxation. The following facts capture some of the most interesting aspects of Chippenham life.

• Chippenham was once the location of a royal palace; King Alfred the Great hid from Vikings here.
• The original spelling was 'Cippanhamme' meaning 'Cippa's homestead'.
• Chippenham’s market is one of the longest continuously operated markets in England.
• Nearby Corsham Court was a country house used by the Ministry of Defence during WWII.
• The town has a strong connection with the Australian actor John Pilbeam, who lived here.
• Chippenham has a bypass (A350) that alleviates traffic in the town centre.
• The town’s water tower, built in 1872, is a local landmark.
• Chippenham has a thriving business park: Bumpers Farm and Bowerhill.
• The Chippenham Youth Theatre won several national awards.
• Chippenham was the birthplace of pioneering female doctor Elizabeth Blackwell in 1821.
• The town has an active Rotary Club and many charities.
• Chippenham’s public library operates a seed library scheme.
• Chippenham was named one of the best places to live in the South West in 2023.
• The River Avon through Chippenham hosts regular boat trips.
• Chippenham has a high number of independent shops and boutiques.

Geography and Climate of Chippenham

Chippenham is located in west Wiltshire, approximately 13 miles east of Bath and 20 miles south of Swindon. It lies in the valley of the River Avon, surrounded by rolling chalk hills and fertile farmland. The town covers an area of about 4.5 square miles, with a mix of urban development and green spaces.

The layout of Chippenham extends along the A4 road and the railway line. The town has several distinct neighbourhoods: the historic centre, housing estates like Pewsham and Monkton Park, and industrial areas towards Bumpers Farm. Natural features include the river corridor, waymarked footpaths, and nearby woodlands such as King’s Wood.

• Climate: Temperate maritime, with mild summers and cool winters.
• Average summer high: 21°C; average winter low: 2°C.
• Rainfall: around 700mm per year, fairly evenly distributed.
• Sunshine: about 1,500 hours annually.
• Geology: Kimmeridge clay and Oxford clay underlie the area.
• Soil: mainly clay loam, good for agriculture.
• Natural hazards: rare localised flooding near the river.
• Green spaces: Monkton Park, Queen’s Park, John Coles Park, and the River Avon Path.

Things to Do in Chippenham

Chippenham offers a surprising variety of activities for residents and visitors. Whether you enjoy history, music, food, or outdoor adventures, the town has something to offer. Its location also allows easy access to the wider attractions of Wiltshire and Bath.

Food & Dining

The culinary scene in Chippenham has evolved in recent years, with a mix of traditional pubs, modern eateries, and international cuisine. The town centre has several fine dining options, while the high street offers quick bites. Local ingredients are celebrated, especially from nearby farms.

Top picks include 'The Vine Tree' for steaks, 'The Grove' for Mediterranean dishes, and 'The Brunel' for gourmet pub food. There are also Indian, Chinese, Thai, and Italian restaurants. The weekly farmers' market on Saturdays features local produce, artisan cheeses, and baked goods.

• Market Place bistros and gastropubs.
• Fish and chips at The Albion.
• Traditional Sunday roasts in country pubs like The Ivy Inn.
• Local ales from Avon Valley Brewery and Box Steam Brewery.
• Afternoon tea at Cream Tea on the Green near Corsham.
• Street food events during the Folk Festival.
• Fine dining at The Rudloe Arms just outside town.
• Italian cuisine at Café Cibo.
• Indian cuisine at The Raj Mahal.
• Chinese takeaway at Jade Garden.
• Pizzeria at Fireaway.
• Vegan options at The Potted Meadow.
• Coffee culture at Susters and The Coffee House.
• Farm produce at Clarks the Butcher and The Hops and Vines.

Festivals & Events

Chippenham’s calendar is packed with events. The flagship is the Chippenham Folk Festival, held in May, featuring concerts, workshops, and street processions. Other events include the Chippenham Food Festival in September, and the Christmas Lights Switch-On with a winter market.

Community events like the Chippenham Carnival and the River Avon boat race add to the year-round excitement. The town also hosts a regular antiques fair and a vintage vehicle rally.

• Chippenham Folk Festival (May bank holiday).
• Chippenham Food Festival (September).
• Chippenham Christmas Market (December).
• Chippenham Carnival (June).
• Chippenham Beach – pop-up beach in summer in Monkton Park.
• Live at the Pavilion music events.
• Chippenham Film Festival.
• Wiltshire Air Ambulance Open Day.
• Chippenham History Festival.
• Local parkrun every Saturday.
• Chippenham Half Marathon & 10K.

Cultural Attractions

History lovers can explore the Chippenham Museum, housed in a 17th-century building, detailing the town’s development. The Town Hall offers guided tours, and St. Andrew’s Church showcases medieval architecture. For art, the Westinghouse Gallery presents rotating exhibitions.

Corsham Court, a 16th-century country house with a fine art collection, is just four miles away. The town also has a vibrant community arts scene with workshops at the Neeld Community & Arts Centre.

• Chippenham Museum (free entry).
• The Neeld Hall for concerts and theatre.
• St. Andrew’s Church and its historic stained glass.
• Chippenham Library, a Carnegie building.
• Westinghouse Gallery.
• Buttercross and Market Place architecture.
• Nearby: Castle Combe village (often called 'the prettiest village in England').
• Lacock Abbey and Fox Talbot Museum (15 minutes drive).
• Corsham Court (4 miles).

Outdoor Activities

Chippenham’s location on the River Avon and at the edge of the North Wessex Downs AONB provides endless outdoor opportunities. The town has a number of parks, as well as cycle trails and walking routes.

Monkton Park offers large open spaces, a skate park, and a children's play area. John Coles Park has tennis courts and a bowling green. The River Avon Path is a relaxing walk along the river. For serious hikers, the Cotswold Way is only a short drive away.

• Walk the Chippenham Riverside Path (2 miles).
• Cycle the Wiltshire Cycle Route 4 and 5.
• Jog around Monkton Park.
• Play tennis at John Coles Park.
• Fish on the River Avon (permit required).
• Ride at Chippenham Golf Club (18 holes).
• Horse riding at local stables.
• Explore King's Wood and Studley Wood.
• Visit Bowood House & Gardens (4 miles) for parkland.
• Take a day trip to the Cotswolds.
• Wild swimming spots only a short drive away (e.g., Bradford-on-Avon).
• Geocaching in the area.
• Family picnics at the local parks.
• Birdwatching at nearby reserves like Langford Lakes.

Economy and Key Industries

Chippenham’s economy has evolved from its agricultural and market roots into a diversified base. The town is home to several large employers in the engineering, logistics, and service sectors. The Bumpers Farm and Bowerhill industrial estates host many companies.

Key industries include aerospace components, telecommunications, and distribution. The town also has a strong retail and hospitality sector, with the town centre and out-of-town retail parks offering employment. In recent years, the digital and creative sectors have grown.

Major employers include the NHS Wiltshire CCG, Wincanton (logistics), and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) at Corsham. The proximity to Bath and Swindon also provides commuter opportunities. The economy is stable with relatively low unemployment compared to national averages.

• Aerospace: Safran Landing Systems (based in nearby Gloucester, but supply chain local).
• Logistics: Wincanton, DHL (distribution centres).
• Engineering: Blackmore's (now part of JLR), and other metal fabricators.
• Telecoms: Several companies in data centres and fibre optics.
• Retail: Sainsbury's, Tesco, Waitrose, and many independents.
• Public sector: NHS, Wiltshire Council, MoD Corsham.
• Tourism: hotels, B&Bs, and event venues.
• Technology: small start-ups in creative and IT.
• Agriculture: still present in surrounding villages.
• Construction: several builders and developers.
• Education: employment in schools and colleges.

Where to Live in Chippenham

Chippenham offers a range of residential areas to suit different lifestyles. The town centre is ideal for those wanting convenience, with period properties and apartments. Suburban estates like Pewsham provide family-friendly housing with good schools.

Monkton Park is popular for its green spaces and proximity to the river. Cepen Park and Bowerhill offer newer developments. For a rural feel, the adjacent villages of Corsham, Lacock, and Biddestone are within easy commute. Each area has its own character, from historic charm to modern living.

Property prices are moderate compared to Bath or Bristol, making Chippenham attractive for first-time buyers and families. The rental market is also active, with a mix of houses and flats. The community spirit is strong, with many local events and organisations.

• Chippenham Town Centre: historic apartments and townhouses, close to amenities.
• Monkton Park: leafy area with a large park, good for families.
• Pewsham: popular housing estate with primary school and shops.
• Bowerhill: modern estates with easy access to A350.
• Cepen Park South/North: established suburb with a mix of housing.
• Lacock: picturesque medieval village with National Trust properties.
• Corsham: historic town with a high street and community feel.
• Biddestone: classic Wiltshire village good for commuters.
• Langley Burrell: rural hamlet near Chippenham.
• Derry Hill: elevated area with good views.
• King's Ride: exclusive neighbourhood with large houses.
• Sheldon: quiet area near the river.

Formalities and Visas in Chippenham

As part of the United Kingdom, immigration rules for Chippenham are governed by UK visa regulations. Visitors from non-EEA countries will need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) depending on nationality. The UK points-based system applies for work, study, and family visas.

The local Home Office office is in Bristol, but most applications are online. Chippenham is not a border town, so no special local requirements exist. It's important to check the latest rules on the gov.uk website before travelling.

Necessary steps include obtaining a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), registering with the local police if required, and ensuring you have the correct visa for your planned stay. Overstaying can lead to deportation and bans.

• Tourist visa: usually up to 6 months; apply online.
• Standard Visitor visa: for business, medical, or academic visits.
• Student visa: for studying at Chippenham's colleges or nearby universities.
• Skilled Worker visa: points-based, requires a sponsor employer.
• Family visa: for joining family in Chippenham.
• EU Settlement Scheme: for EU citizens who were resident before Brexit.
• Global Talent visa: for leaders in science, arts, tech.
• Youth Mobility Scheme: for young people from certain countries.
• Biometric Residence Permit: collected at designated post office.
• UKVI contact centre for inquiries.
• Legal advice: local solicitors specialising in immigration.
• Police registration: within 7 days of arrival if required.
• Health surcharge: paid with visa application to access NHS.
• Working rights: check your visa conditions carefully.
• Driving licence: exchange foreign licence within 12 months.

Working in Chippenham

Chippenham has a robust job market with opportunities across several sectors. The town is a hub for logistics and engineering, and the nearby MoD Corsham provides many defence roles. The NHS is also a major employer, with Chippenham Community Hospital and local GP surgeries.

The average salary in Chippenham is around £30,000-£35,000, with higher incomes in management and technology. The traditional working day is 9am-5pm, with some flexible work arrangements post-pandemic. Commuting to Bath, Bristol, or Swindon is common.

The workforce is known for being skilled and friendly. CVs and interviews are typical for job applications. Temporary work is available through agencies. Self-employment is also rising, especially in trades and creative services.

• Job sectors: logistics, engineering, retail, health, education.
• Key employers: Wincanton, NHS, MoD, Wiltshire Council.
• Finding work: major job sites (Indeed, LinkedIn), local agencies (Hunters, Hays).
• Working hours: standard full-time 7.5-8 hours/day, 5 days/week.
• Holiday entitlement: minimum 28 days per year (including bank holidays).
• Employment contract: written statement required within 2 months.
• Minimum wage: national living wage for over 23 (as of 2024).
• Self-employment: register with HMRC as sole trader or Ltd company.
• Commuting: Chippenham to Bristol by train takes 25-35 minutes.
• Freelancer hubs: The Base coworking space available.
• Economic outlook: steady with some growth in tech.
• Professional culture: relatively informal but professional dress code in many offices.
• Trade unions: active in some sectors.

Studying in Chippenham

Chippenham offers good educational opportunities for all ages. The town has several primary and secondary schools, including the popular Chippenham Academy and Sheldon School. For further education, Wiltshire College has a campus in Chippenham offering A-levels and vocational courses.

For higher education, students may commute to the University of Bath, University of Bristol, or the University of the West of England. The town also has a library with study spaces and online resources. Adult education classes are run by the council.

International students will need to apply for a student visa and prove English proficiency (e.g., IELTS). Student life is enriched by the town’s events and proximity to cities. Accommodation includes homestays, private rentals, or university halls in nearby cities.

• Primary schools: Ivy Lane Primary, Queen’s Crescent, Redland.
• Secondary schools: Sheldon School, Chippenham Academy.
• Special needs: St Nicholas School.
• Further education: Wiltshire College Chippenham campus.
• Higher education: Bath (20 min train), Bristol (30 min train).
• Student visa: Cas from institution, maintenance funds required.
• English language: IELTS 6.0+ for vocational, 6.5+ for academic.
• Student accommodation: private rentals; budget £400-£600/month for a room.
• Student support: local library and college services.
• Scholarships: limited; government loans for eligible courses.
• Part-time work: students on tier 4 can work up to 20 hrs/week term-time.
• Extracurricular: youth theatre, sports clubs, music groups.
• Transport: student discounts on rail and bus.
• Safety: Chippenham is very safe for students.
• Cultural life: easy access to Bath and Bristol student scenes.
• Post-study: Graduate visa allows 2 years’ work in the UK.

Finance and Banks in Chippenham

Chippenham has a full range of banking services. All major banks have branches: Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, and NatWest. Building societies like Nationwide are also present. The town centre also has ATMs, currency exchange, and financial advisors.

Digital banking is very popular, with Monzo, Revolut, and Starling widely used for daily transactions. Taxes are handled by HMRC online. Opening a bank account normally requires proof of address and ID. Non-residents may need a referral from an employer.

• Bank branches: Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, NatWest, Santander (nearby).
• Building societies: Nationwide, Skipton.
• ATM locations: town centre, supermarkets, petrol stations.
• Currency exchange: Post Office, some travel agencies.
• Mortgage advisors: independent and bank-based.
• Financial planning: local advisers like Fisher & Taylor.
• Taxes: income tax via PAYE; self-assessment online.
• VAT: 20% standard for goods and services.
• Insurance: many brokers for home, life, travel.
• Investing: stockbrokers via online platforms.
• Credit cards: prevalent; used for online shopping.
• Mobile banking: widely used (Monzo, Starling).
• International transfers: use Wise or CurrencyFair for best rates.
• Banking hours: Mon-Fri 9:30am-4pm, some open Saturday.

Health Care in Chippenham

Chippenham is served by the National Health Service (NHS). The local hospital is Chippenham Community Hospital, providing minor injury unit, outpatient services, and some inpatient beds. For major emergencies, patients go to Royal United Hospital in Bath or Great Western Hospital in Swindon.

General practice (GP) services are available at several surgeries, including Chippenham Medical Centre and the Rowden Surgery. Dentists, opticians, and pharmacies are plentiful. Private health care options also exist, with clinics offering faster access.

• Emergency: dial 999 for ambulance, fire, police.
• Non-emergency medical: 111 for advice.
• Chippenham Community Hospital: minor injuries unit, physiotherapy.
• GP surgeries: Chippenham Medical Centre, Rowden Surgery, Park Medical Practice.
• Dentists: Castle Dental, Bath Road Dental, and others.
• Opticians: Specsavers, Boots Opticians, independent firms.
• Pharmacies: Boots, Lloyds, Tesco, independent chemists.
• Mental health: talking therapies via IAPT, private counselors.
• Sexual health: local clinic; Chippenham has a C-card scheme.
• Vaccinations: childhood jabs, flu, COVID-19 at GP or pharmacy.
• Private hospitals: The Bath Clinic (BMI Healthcare) nearby.
• Health insurance: Bupa, AXA, Vitality for private cover.
• Maternity: midwife-led unit at Chippenham; birth at Bath.
• Accessibility: wheelchair-friendly practices.
• Prescriptions: charge £9.65 per item (2024) or pre-payment certificate.

Accommodation in Chippenham

Finding the right home in Chippenham is relatively straightforward. The market offers a mix of period terraces, modern family houses, and countryside cottages. Rental prices are reasonable compared to Bath and Bristol.

• Buying: average house price around £280,000 (2024).
• Renting: one-bedroom flat £600-£800 per month; three-bedroom house £900-£1,200.
• Types: Victorian terraces, 1930s semi-detached, modern estates, apartments.
• Property websites: Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket.
• Estate agents: Lucas Dawe, Anscombe & Ringland, Charles Stiles.
• Tenancy agreement: usually 6-12 months, deposit protected.
• Student accommodation: shared houses near Wiltshire College.
• Short-term lets: Airbnb and serviced apartments available.

Planning Your Move to Chippenham

Moving to a new town requires planning. A thorough checklist will help. Start by securing accommodation and setting up utilities. Notify relevant organisations of your change of address.

• 1. Arrange temporary lodging before permanent home.
• 2. Set up bank account.
• 3. Register with a GP.
• 4. Transfer school records for children.
• 5. Notify current landlord or mortgage provider.
• 6. Arrange removals or van hire.
• 7. Redirect mail via Royal Mail.
• 8. Set up utilities: electricity, gas, water, broadband.
• 9. Register for council tax.
• 10. Update driving licence and vehicle registration (DVLA).
• 11. Apply for parking permits if needed.
• 12. Register to vote.
• 13. Get to know local transport options.
• 14. Join local community groups (Facebook, Nextdoor).
• 15. Explore the area and learn the amenities.

Leisure in Chippenham

Evenings and weekends in Chippenham are lively. The town centre has several pubs, bars, and a cinema. The Neeld Hall hosts live music and theatre. Shopping enjoys a mix of high-street names and independent stores. Sports facilities include a leisure centre with a gym and pool.

• Nightlife: The Ivy, The Crown, and The Black Horse for pubs.
• Bars: Casa, The Cheese & Wine Shop.
• Cinema: The Reel Cinema (4 screens).
• Theatre: The Neeld Hall, also used for comedy and concerts.
• Shopping: Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, many charity shops.
• Sports: Olympiad Leisure Centre (gym, swimming, classes).
• Bowling: ten-pin at The Bowl, located at the leisure park.
• Golf: Chippenham Golf Club and nearby courses.
• Parks: ideal for walking, jogging, and picnics.
• Hobbies: local art groups, dance classes, choirs.

Transportation Options in Chippenham

Chippenham is well connected. The railway station on the Great Western Main Line provides direct trains to London Paddington (75 mins), Bristol, Bath, and Cardiff. The town is also on the A350, linking to the M4 and M5 motorways. Local buses cover the town and nearby villages.

• Train: South Western Railway and Great Western Railway services.
• Main routes: London Paddington, Bristol Temple Meads, Bath Spa, Swindon.
• Bus: Stagecoach services (routes 33, 35, X31); also Faresaver.
• Road: A350 bypasses town; M4 junction 17 (Chippenham) 6 miles north.
• Air: Bristol Airport (45 mins), Heathrow (1.5 hours by car+train).
• Cycling: National Cycle Network Route 4 passes through.
• Walking: multiple footpaths; town centre is walkable.
• Taxis: available at station and via local firms (Swift, Viking).
• Parking: several car parks in town; pay and display.
• Park and ride: no dedicated service but ample parking.

Everyday Life in Chippenham

Daily life in Chippenham is calm and convenient. The town is safe, with low crime rates. Essential services are within reach, and community cohesion is strong. Many residents enjoy the balance of a small town with city access.

• Safety: very low crime; Wiltshire is one of the safest counties.
• Community: active neighbourhood watch, local clubs.
• Shopping: weekly market, supermarkets, convenience stores.
• Education: good local schools and childcare options.
• Healthcare: easy GP access; minor injury unit on site.
• Internet: high-speed fibre broadband available.
• Post offices: two post offices in town.
• Recycling: kerbside collection weekly; recycling centre at the tip.
• Places of worship: churches, a mosque, and a temple.
• Volunteering: many opportunities at charities and events.

Cost of Living in Chippenham

Chippenham is more affordable than Bath or Bristol, but slightly above the UK average. Housing is the largest expense. Utilities and groceries are standard. Eating out is cheaper than in nearby cities.

• Rent (1-bed apt): £700-£900/month in centre.
• Utilities (electric/gas/internet): £150-£200/month.
• Council tax: band D approx. £1,700/year.
• Groceries: £250-£350/month for single person.
• Transport: monthly train pass to Bath £150-£200.
• Dining: pub meal £12-£18, pizza £8-£12.
• Entertainment: cinema £10, gym membership £30.
• Childcare: full-time nursery £1,000-£1,200/month.

Places to Visit in Chippenham

Chippenham itself has many attractions. The town centre offers the historic Market Place, the Buttercross, and beautiful St. Andrew's Church. A short walk along the river leads to Monkton Park. The Chippenham Museum is a treasure house of local history.

Just outside town, Bowood House & Gardens features a huge parkland, adventure playground, and a magnificent house. Lacock Abbey is a must-see for film fans (Harry Potter scenes filmed here). Castle Combe is often called the 'prettiest village in England'. Corsham Court offers art and architecture.

Nature lovers can explore the North Wessex Downs AONB, with excellent walking. The nearby town of Bradford-on-Avon has a lovely canal towpath and a Tithe Barn. Bath with its Roman spas is just 20 minutes away.

For families, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Adventure Valley are within a 30-minute drive. The area is also rich in megalithic sites, including Stonehenge and Avebury.

• Chippenham Market Place and Buttercross.
• St. Andrew's Church and Churchyard.
• Chippenham Museum.
• Monkton Park and Riverside Walk.
• Bowood House & Gardens (4 miles).
• Lacock Abbey and Fox Talbot Museum (5 miles).
• Castle Combe (8 miles).
• Corsham Court (4 miles).
• Bradford-on-Avon (10 miles).
• Bath (13 miles).
• North Wessex Downs AONB.
• Sheldon Manor (historic house, 2 miles).
• Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park (10 miles).
• Stonehenge (30 miles).
• Avebury Stone Circle (20 miles).

News & Testimonies

Recent developments in Chippenham include the regeneration of the town centre, with new shops and improved public spaces. The Bowerhill housing development has added new homes. There has been debate about the proposed expansion of the A350.

• Resident Mary: 'Chippenham is so friendly; the folk festival is the year's highlight.'
• Newcomer John: 'Easy commute to Bristol, and the cost of living is reasonable.'
• Family feedback: 'Great schools and parks. We love it here.'
• Local business owner: 'The community supports local shops; it's a strong economy.'
• Retiree Edith: 'Slow pace of life, but city amenities nearby. Perfect.'

Forum Topics on Living in Chippenham

Online forums reveal common questions about moving to Chippenham. Many ask about the best areas for families, reliability of trains, and availability of housing. Others discuss the social scene and schools.

• 'Which primary school is best in Chippenham?'
• 'How bad is the traffic on the A350?'
• 'Is it worth commuting to London?'
• 'Where to find the best Sunday roast?'
• 'What is the best dentist in town?'
• 'So you recommend Chippenham for a young family?'
• 'Cheap housing vs. better schools: Pewsham or Bowerhill?'
• 'How is the nightlife for