About Downhead

Downhead is a small village located in Somerset, England, within the BA4 postcode area. The village is surrounded by the rolling hills of the Mendip Hills, which offer opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural landscape. Downhead is primarily residential, with a few local amenities that cater to the needs of its residents. The village is close to larger towns such as Shepton Mallet and Wells, providing access to a wider range of shops and services. Downhead is also well-positioned for exploring the surrounding countryside, making it a suitable base for those wishing to experience the rural charm of Somerset. The local community is friendly, and the village offers a peaceful atmosphere for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

School Ratings in Downhead

Downhead is served by 25 schools. A further 5 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Downhead

Property prices average £355K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £524K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Downhead

Local crime rates sit broadly in line with national averages. Public order accounts for the highest share in Downhead, with 7 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Downhead

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Downhead 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.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Downhead

Superfast broadband reaches parts of Downhead, though coverage is not uniform. 4G mobile signal is available in most areas, with 5G access more limited. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 2,368 sales

Average Price £355K
£9K £3.95M
Detached £524K 717
Semi £271K 575
Terraced £222K 593
Flat £136K 267

Deprivation and Employment in Downhead IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Downhead 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.

Overall Deprivation
6/10
Income
7/10
Employment
7/10
Education
5/10
Health
8/10
Housing
3/10
Living Environment
4/10
4,904 Children (0-15) 17%
17,318 Working Age 60%
8,945 Older (60+) 31%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 23% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 11.3% 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 Downhead 85 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Downhead experiences crime rates that are roughly comparable to the national picture. Violence & sexual offences is the most reported category, consistent with broader patterns across similar communities. Day-to-day life here reflects the usual mix of challenges found in any established small town.

45 Violence & Sexual Offences
7 Public Order
5 Other Theft
5 Shoplifting
4 Burglary
4 Criminal Damage & Arson
4 Drugs
4 Vehicle Crime
3 Anti-Social Behaviour
3 Other Crime
1 Robbery
Local Policing
Avon And Somerset Frome Rural South
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 4 stations

Frome Train Station 5.7 miles
Bruton Train Station 6.7 miles
Castle Cary Train Station 8.3 miles
Dilton Marsh Train Station 9.4 miles

Location

Local Government

District Mendip
County Somerset
Ward Croscombe and Pilton
Constituency Wells
Parish North Wootton
Region South West