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 broadly in line with national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Melksham Forest, with 52 incidents logged in March 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 191 crimes · March 2026

Average Crime Area

Melksham Forest 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 town.

66 Violence & Sexual Offences
52 Anti-Social Behaviour
17 Shoplifting
15 Public Order
12 Criminal Damage & Arson
8 Other Theft
5 Burglary
5 Other Crime
4 Drugs
4 Vehicle Crime
1 Bicycle Theft
1 Weapons
1 Robbery
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