What’s it like living in Dewsbury?
Geography and Housing
Dewsbury is a market town in the Metropolitan Borough of Kirklees, West Yorkshire, England. It lies along the River Calder, approximately 9 miles south-southwest of Leeds. The town’s location within the Calder Valley has historically influenced its development, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, when it became a significant mill town.
The housing landscape in Dewsbury is varied, with property types including Victorian terraces, mid-20th century housing and modern developments.
Unique Attributes of Dewsbury
Dewsbury has a rich history and cultural heritage, with notable landmarks such as Dewsbury Minster, Dewsbury Town Hall and Dewsbury Market, which has been a focal point of local commerce since the 14th century.
Neighbourhoods and Amenities
Dewsbury comprises several distinct neighbourhoods, including Westtown, Ravensthorpe and Thornhill. The town offers a range of amenities, including shopping facilities, parks and healthcare services.
Architectural Traits and Building Materials
The town’s architectural landscape includes stone-built structures, Victorian terraced houses and modern developments. The prevalent use of local sandstone gives the town its distinct aesthetic.
Flooding Risk and Radon Levels
Potential homebuyers should be aware of environmental factors such as flood risks due to the town’s location along the River Calder. Radon levels are generally low but should be checked before purchasing a property.
Transportation and Connectivity
Dewsbury is well-connected by road, rail and public transport. The M1 and M62 motorways provide access to major cities, while Dewsbury railway station offers regular services to Leeds, Manchester and beyond.
Education and Family Life
The town has a variety of primary and secondary schools, as well as further education opportunities in nearby cities. Family-friendly amenities such as parks and community centres support a good quality of life.
Comparison with Nearby Areas
Compared to neighbouring towns like Batley and Huddersfield, Dewsbury offers a balance of affordability and amenities. While Batley shares a similar industrial heritage, Dewsbury has a larger market and it may offer more affordable housing than Huddersfield.
Where is the best place to live in Dewsbury?
Savile Town
Located south of the River Calder, Savile Town is renowned for its Victorian-era architecture. The area predominantly features period properties, offering residents a glimpse into Dewsbury’s rich history.
Westtown
Situated west of the town centre near the A644, Westtown offers a mix of mid-20th-century housing and Victorian terraces. Its proximity to central Dewsbury makes it convenient for shopping and other amenities.
Earlsheaton
Earlsheaton, located southeast of the town centre and close to the River Calder, boasts a variety of housing options. Residents can choose from early-to-mid 20th-century houses and Victorian stone-built terraces.
Chickenley
Chickenley is known for its modern new-build houses, complemented by period terraces and mid-20th-century properties. This blend offers potential homeowners a range of choices.
Eastborough
Close to Hanging Heaton golf club, Eastborough provides homes with scenic views across Dewsbury. Stone-built houses on streets like William Street add to the area’s appeal.
Ravensthorpe
Located southwest of the town centre near the River Calder and Dewsbury Country Park, Ravensthorpe offers a diverse range of period and modern properties. Its proximity to natural landscapes makes it attractive to nature enthusiasts.
Scouthill
Nestled between Ravensthorpe and Westtown on the northern bank of the River Calder, Scouthill features large early 20th-century houses alongside smaller period terraces.
Dewsbury Moor
Just east of Dewsbury Country Park, Dewsbury Moor is characterised by large semi-detached family homes and 1970s terraces, particularly along Groves Hall Road. The area is ideal for families seeking spacious residences.
Thornhill Lees
South of Savile Town, Thornhill Lees is home to mid-20th-century semi-detached homes and some of Dewsbury’s finest period terraces, offering a blend of historical and modern living.
Thornhill
Approximately three miles south of the town centre, the village of Thornhill provides properties with picturesque views of the West Yorkshire hills, especially along High Street and Overthorpe Avenue.
Hanging Heaton
Northeast of Dewsbury, the village of Hanging Heaton offers stunning vistas toward Batley. Properties on Kirkgate and Derwent Road, known for their bay-fronted early 20th-century designs, are particularly sought after.
