West Stour on the map
Built-up area0.2 km² (0.1 sq mi)
Location in DorsetWest Stour sits where the marker shows within the county.
About West Stour
West Stour is a village located in the county of Dorset, England, with the postcode area SP8. It is situated along the River Stour, providing a scenic backdrop to the community. The village features a mix of residential homes and local amenities, including a primary school and a few small shops. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural landscape.
The village is part of the North Dorset district and is conveniently positioned near larger towns such as Gillingham and Shaftesbury. West Stour is served by local transport links, making it accessible for those wishing to explore the area further. The community hosts various events throughout the year, fostering a sense of togetherness among residents. Overall, West Stour presents a peaceful setting for those looking to experience village life in Dorset.
School Ratings in West Stour
West Stour is served by 18 schools. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in West Stour
Property prices average £337K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £415K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in West Stour
Local crime rates sit lower than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in West Stour, with 7 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in West Stour
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, West Stour falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in West Stour
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of West Stour, the nearest being Gillingham Medical Practice (2.9 miles away).
Local Data for West Stour
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Property Prices 2,577 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the SP8 postcode area.
Household Income in West Stour ONS 2023
The average total household income in West Stour is approximately £51,083 a year before tax, 8% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £39,130. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £39,130.
Businesses in West Stour ONS 2025
There are approximately 688 active businesses based in West Stour, around 45 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 93% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 9 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in West Stour IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places West Stour in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.
Crime in West Stour 36 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in West Stour falls below the national average, suggesting a comparatively safe environment. Violence & sexual offences tops the list of recorded incidents, but figures are low overall. Residents and visitors alike tend to find this a quiet and reassuring small town.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 4 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in West Stour
Of the 6,797 households in and around West Stour, 74% are owned, 10% are socially rented and 17% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering West Stour.