Lancashire

Reasons to consider living in Lancashire

1. Rich History and Heritage: Lancashire has a rich historical and cultural heritage, with a legacy that spans centuries. The county is known for its historic cities, such as Lancaster and Preston, which boast well-preserved architecture, castles, and museums. Lancashire played a significant role during the Industrial Revolution and has many industrial heritage sites.
2. Beautiful Landscapes: Lancashire is blessed with diverse and picturesque landscapes. From the stunning coastline along Morecambe Bay to the rolling hills of the Forest of Bowland and the scenic beauty of the Ribble Valley, there is something for everyone. The county offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, nature walks, and exploring the great outdoors.
3. Vibrant Cities and Towns: Lancashire is home to vibrant cities and towns that offer a mix of urban amenities and a sense of community. Cities like Manchester, Preston, and Lancaster provide a range of shopping centres, cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues. There are also charming market towns, such as Clitheroe and Garstang, which have a more traditional and welcoming atmosphere.
4. Excellent Transport Links: Lancashire benefits from excellent transport connections, both within the county and to other parts of the UK. The M6 motorway runs through Lancashire, providing easy access to major cities like Manchester and Liverpool. The county has well-connected railway networks, including direct train services to London and other major cities.
5. Educational Opportunities: Lancashire offers a range of educational institutions, including universities, colleges, and schools. The University of Lancaster is a well-regarded institution known for its research and academic excellence. There are also highly-rated primary and secondary schools across the county, providing quality education for families.
6. Cultural and Sporting Events: Lancashire hosts a variety of cultural and sporting events throughout the year. The county has a strong music and arts scene, with theatres, concert venues, and galleries showcasing local and international talent. Lancashire is also home to iconic sports clubs like Manchester United and Lancashire County Cricket Club, offering opportunities for sports enthusiasts.
7. Friendly Communities: Lancashire is known for its warm and friendly communities. The people of Lancashire are often described as welcoming and down-to-earth, creating a sense of belonging and community spirit. The county has a strong sense of identity and local pride, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
8. Employment Opportunities: Lancashire has a diverse economy with employment opportunities across various sectors. The county is home to industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, tourism, and creative industries. The proximity to major cities like Manchester and Liverpool also provides additional job prospects.

Best places to live in Lancashire

1. Clitheroe: Nestled in the picturesque Ribble Valley, Clitheroe is known for its stunning countryside, historic castle, and vibrant town centre. It offers a great quality of life, excellent schools, and a friendly community.
2. Lytham St Annes: This coastal town is renowned for its elegant Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and well-manicured parks. It has a thriving arts and culture scene, high-quality schools, and a range of leisure activities.
3. Lancaster: As the county town of Lancashire, Lancaster is rich in history and offers a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. It has a prestigious university, a charming city centre with independent shops, and easy access to the stunning Lake District.
4. Ribchester: Situated on the banks of the River Ribble, Ribchester is a tranquil village with a rich Roman heritage. It boasts a close-knit community, scenic countryside, and a range of outdoor activities such as walking and cycling.
5. Garstang: Known as the world’s first Fairtrade Town, Garstang is a charming market town with a strong sense of community. It offers a good range of amenities, beautiful countryside surroundings, and easy access to the Forest of Bowland.
6. Burscough: This small town is located on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, providing residents with scenic walks and boating opportunities. Burscough has a friendly atmosphere, a number of independent shops, and good transport links to nearby cities.
7. Poulton-le-Fylde: Situated close to the seaside resort of Blackpool, Poulton-le-Fylde offers a more peaceful and family-friendly environment. It has a bustling town centre with shops and restaurants, excellent schools, and beautiful countryside nearby.
8. Ramsbottom: Located in the scenic Irwell Valley, Ramsbottom is a charming town known for its vibrant food and drink scene, independent shops, and picturesque surroundings. It has a strong community spirit and hosts various festivals and events.
9. Ormskirk: Home to Edge Hill University, Ormskirk is a historic market town with a lively atmosphere. It has a mix of traditional and modern amenities, a range of cultural attractions, and easy access to Liverpool and Manchester.
10. Carnforth: Situated on the edge of the stunning Lake District, Carnforth offers a peaceful lifestyle with beautiful countryside views. It has good transport links, a range of amenities, and is famous for being the setting of the film “Brief Encounter.”

Best schools in Lancashire (not official rankings)

1. Lancaster Royal Grammar School (Lancaster)
2. Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School (Rawtenstall)
3. Clitheroe Royal Grammar School (Clitheroe)
4. The Grammar School at Leeds (Leeds)
5. Rossall School (Fleetwood)
6. AKS Lytham Independent School (Lytham St Annes)
7. Westholme School (Blackburn)
8. QEGS Blackburn (Blackburn)
9. Bury Grammar School (Bury)
10. Lancaster Girls’ Grammar School (Lancaster)