About Melksham Forest

Melksham Forest, located in Wiltshire, England, is a woodland area that offers a variety of walking paths and opportunities for outdoor activities. The forest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. Visitors can explore the trails that wind through the trees, providing a chance to appreciate the natural surroundings. The forest is easily accessible and provides a welcome escape from the hustle of daily life. It is suitable for families, dog walkers, and anyone seeking a bit of fresh air. With its well-maintained paths, Melksham Forest is a practical choice for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of the Wiltshire countryside.

School Ratings in Melksham Forest

Melksham Forest is served by 40 schools. Kings Park Children's Centre is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 4 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Melksham Forest

Property prices average £318K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £394K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Melksham Forest

Local crime rates sit lower than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Melksham Forest, with 23 incidents logged in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Melksham Forest

Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Melksham Forest 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 Melksham Forest

Most properties in Melksham Forest can access superfast or ultrafast broadband. 4G coverage is extensive and 5G is increasingly available across the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 4,421 sales

Average Price £318K
£500 £19.08M
Detached £394K 1,508
Semi £270K 1,414
Terraced £224K 898
Flat £200K 386

Deprivation and Employment in Melksham Forest IMD 2025

The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Melksham Forest 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
7/10
Income
7/10
Employment
6/10
Education
5/10
Health
7/10
Housing
5/10
Living Environment
7/10
5,917 Children (0-15) 18%
19,585 Working Age 58%
10,240 Older (60+) 31%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 26.1% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 9.8% 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 Melksham Forest 97 crimes · January 2026

Low Crime Area

Reported crime in Melksham Forest 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 town.

41 Violence & Sexual Offences
23 Anti-Social Behaviour
7 Public Order
5 Drugs
5 Shoplifting
4 Criminal Damage & Arson
3 Burglary
3 Vehicle Crime
2 Other Theft
2 Other Crime
1 Bicycle Theft
1 Weapons
Local Policing
Wiltshire Melksham Town Visit force website →
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 6 stations

Melksham Train Station 0.9 miles
Trowbridge Train Station 5.6 miles
Chippenham Train Station 5.7 miles
Bradford-On-Avon Train Station 6.1 miles
Avoncliff Train Station 7.5 miles
Freshford Train Station 8.1 miles

Location

Local Government

District Wiltshire
Ward Melksham South
Constituency Chippenham
Parish Melksham
Region South West