Watton on the map

Location in DorsetWatton sits where the marker shows within the county.

23,061
Population
10,168
Households
6 / 10
Deprivation decile
Around average
10
Schools nearby
£46,871
Avg. household income
1,173
Businesses
145
People per km²
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About Watton

Watton is a small village located in Dorset, England, within the DT6 postcode area. It is situated near the picturesque coastline of the English Channel, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy coastal walks and the natural beauty of the region. The village features a selection of local amenities, including a few shops and a pub, catering to the needs of residents and visitors alike.

Surrounding Watton are several scenic areas, including fields and woodlands that offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling. The nearby town of Lyme Regis is easily accessible, providing additional facilities and attractions. Watton's location allows for a peaceful retreat while still being close to the attractions of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance and fossil-rich cliffs.

School Ratings in Watton

There are 10 schools in and around Watton. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Watton

The average property price is £407K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £538K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Watton

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Watton, with 22 recorded incidents in April 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Watton

Watton sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are broadly in line with the national average.

Healthcare in Watton

There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Watton, the nearest being Ammonite Health Partnership (1 miles away).

Property Prices 3,553 sales

Average Price £407K
£300 , £7.6M
Detached £538K 1,345
Semi £343K 542
Terraced £287K 810
Flat £200K 598

Household Income in Watton ONS 2023

The average total household income in Watton is approximately £46,871 a year before tax, 15% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £36,264. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Watton £46,871
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £36,264.

Businesses in Watton ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,173 active businesses based in Watton, around 51 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 87% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 15 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,173 Total businesses
51 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 87%
Small, 10-49 12%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 0%

Deprivation and Employment in Watton IMD 2025

Watton sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
6/10
Employment
6/10
Education
5/10
Health
7/10
Housing
3/10
Living Environment
4/10
Children 0-15 13%
Working age 52%
Older 65+ 35%
2,998 Children (0-15) 13%
11,928 Working Age 52%
8,135 Older (65+) 35%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 32.8% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 12.8% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Watton 63 crimes · April 2026

Low Crime Area

Watton records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Anti-social behaviour is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled town with a strong sense of community.

Anti-Social Behaviour 22
Violence & Sexual Offences 22
Shoplifting 4
Vehicle Crime 4
Criminal Damage & Arson 3
Other Theft 3
Drugs 2
Burglary 1
Weapons 1
Robbery 1
Local Policing
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 1 stations

Maiden Newton Train Station 9.7 miles

Location

Local Government

District Dorset
Ward Bridport
Constituency West Dorset
Parish Bridport
Region South West

Home Ownership in Watton

Of the 11,056 households in and around Watton, 70% are owned, 14% are socially rented and 16% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 70% Social rented 14% Private rented 16%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Watton.

Frequently Asked Questions about Watton

What is the population of Watton?
Watton has a population of approximately 23,061 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What is the average house price in Watton?
The average property in and around Watton sold for about £407,070, based on HM Land Registry Price Paid records. That is around 17% above the England and Wales average of £349,091.
Is Watton a deprived area?
Watton sits around the national average for deprivation, with an Index of Multiple Deprivation decile of 6 out of 10, where 1 is the most deprived and 10 the least deprived.
What postcodes cover Watton?
Watton is covered by the DT6 postcode district.
How many schools are there in Watton?
There are 10 schools within easy reach of Watton, spanning primary, secondary and other phases.
Where is the nearest train station to Watton?
The nearest railway station to Watton is Maiden Newton Train Station, about 9.7 miles away.