Area Overview for Swainswick

Area Information

Swainswick is a civil parish situated in the Bath area of Somerset, occupying a small footprint of 3.0 km². It sits in a steep-sided valley between Lansdown and Little Solsbury. The name derives from Anglo-Saxon origins, referencing either a hamlet where inhabitants tended pigs or a settlement founded by a man named Swain. This elongated parish shape historically provided access to diverse farmland, ranging from downland grazing to woodlands and meadows along the River Avon. The village is anchored by the Church of St Mary, a Grade II* listed building dating to the 12th century. Adjacent to the church stands the manor house, which reflects the medieval parish organisation. Further down in lower Swainswick lies Lambridge House, a Grade II-listed property dating to approximately 1742. The area also includes Dead Mill, originally a corn mill later converted for cloth processing. Residents enjoy a living in Swainswick that is deeply rooted in history yet integrated into the wider Bath region.

Area Type
Parish
Area Size
3.0 km²
Population
Not available
Population Density
Not available

Demographics

The community in Swainswick directly reflects its history as a settled, older parish. The median age for residents is 70 years, highlighting a population skewed significantly toward older adults. While specific figures for the most common age range are not detailed in the available statistics, the high median age suggests a retirement or long-term resident community. Home ownership is the dominant form of tenure, with 84% of properties owned by their occupants. This high level of ownership typically indicates stability and established families within the neighbourhood. The data does not specify predominant ethnic groups, religious affiliations, or detailed household composition breakdowns beyond the overall picture. You are unlikely to find the transient nature of student housing or young professional rentals here. Instead, you will find a community where residents have deep roots. The demographic profile points to an environment suitable for those seeking quiet retirement or a slow-paced life close to Bath, rather than a hub for young families or students.

Household Size

total
most common

Accommodation Type

total
most common

Tenure

84
majority

Ethnic Group

total
most common

Religion

total
most common

Household Composition

total
most common

Age

70
median
Age: Total
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

49
in Lower managerial occupations

Explore more demographic insights in this area

Go to Demographics tab

Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Locked
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Locked
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Locked
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Locked
  • Protected Woodland
    Locked
  • Crime Risk
    Locked

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Open Planning map

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the typical resident of Swainswick?
The parish has a median age of 70, indicating a mature community. Approximately 84% of residents own their homes, suggesting stability and a lack of short-term rentals. The area is best suited for retirees or those seeking a quiet life near Bath rather than young professionals or students.
Will I have reliable internet for working from home?
Mobile coverage is good with a score of 84/100. Fixed broadband is poor, scoring only 18/100. Residents needing high-speed internet for video calls or large downloads should verify specific property connectivity before buying.
Is Swainswick safe from crime and flooding?
The area has a low crime risk with a safety score of 80/100. Flood risk is minimal at 2.41 on the risk scale. The parish does not contain Ramsar sites or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, simplifying planning restrictions.
Are there historical landmarks I should visit?
The principal landmark is the 12th-century Church of St Mary, a Grade II* listed building. You can also visit Lambridge House, a Grade II-listed property from 1742, and Dead Mill, originally a corn mill. John Wood the Elder, the architect of Georgian Bath, is buried in the church vault.

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