Lancashire

Welcome to Lancashire
Lancashire is one of North West England's most sought-after counties, offering beautiful countryside, historic market towns, excellent transport links and an outstanding choice of premium homes.
AUGHTON
Village Prestige with Countryside Charm Aughton is an upmarket village nestled between Ormskirk and Maghull, offering a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by rolling fields and tree-lined roads. With its blend of historic cottages, stylish new builds, and elegant townhouses, Aughton attracts families, professionals, and retirees seeking refined living in a semi-rural setting.
Excellent Transport Links for Commuters Despite its tranquil feel, Aughton is well-connected via Town Green and Aughton Park train stations, offering direct services to Liverpool in under 30 minutes. The nearby A59 and M58 make driving to Southport, Preston, or Manchester simple, while regular bus routes ensure smooth local travel.
Outstanding Schools and Family Appeal Families are drawn to Aughton for its ‘Outstanding’-rated primary schools, including Aughton Christ Church CofE and Aughton St Michael’s CofE. The village also offers access to sought-after nurseries like Springfield Montessori, praised for its individualised learning approach. Secondary options include St Bede’s Catholic High School, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted.
Local Lifestyle and Amenities Aughton boasts a strong community spirit, with local favourites like The Stanley Arms, Arthur’s of Aughton, and sō-lō Restaurant offering dining with flair. Residents enjoy access to shops, salons, fitness centres, and healthcare services, while Aughton Village Hall hosts regular events, classes, and social groups.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Surrounded by greenbelt land and countryside trails, Aughton is ideal for nature lovers. Scenic walks along Delph Park Avenue, football fields at Eagle Hill, and nearby attractions like Beacon Country Park offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and family fun.
BISPHAM
Rural Elegance with Village Heritage Bispham (L40) is a tranquil village near Ormskirk, offering a refined countryside lifestyle steeped in history. With scenic views stretching toward the Welsh Hills and a landscape dotted with period homes, barn conversions, and farmland, it’s perfect for buyers seeking peace, privacy, and timeless charm. The area’s roots trace back to the Domesday Book, adding depth to its character.
Excellent Road Links for Commuters Despite its rural setting, Bispham is well-connected via the M58 and M6, making travel to Liverpool, Preston, and Manchester straightforward. Nearby Ormskirk Station provides rail access, while local bus routes link residents to surrounding villages and market towns. It’s ideal for professionals who want countryside living without sacrificing convenience.
Strong Schools and Family Appeal Families benefit from access to well-regarded schools in nearby villages, including Bickerstaffe CofE Primary and Aughton Christ Church CofE, both rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. The village’s quiet streets, low crime rates, and green surroundings create a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Local Lifestyle and Community Spirit Bispham offers essential amenities like a post office, village hall, and cosy pubs such as The Stanley Gate. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, with events like Bickerstock music festival and farmers markets fostering local pride. For shopping and dining, Ormskirk and Skelmersdale are just a short drive away.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Surrounded by greenbelt land, Bispham is a haven for nature lovers. Scenic walks along Beacon Country Park, Bickerstaffe Parish Field, and nearby trails offer daily opportunities for outdoor recreation. The area’s clean air, wildlife, and panoramic views make it ideal for those seeking a healthy, active lifestyle.
HALSALL
Rural Tranquillity with Historic Charm Halsall is a picturesque village steeped in history, dating back to the Domesday Book. Nestled among open fields and winding canals, it offers a peaceful lifestyle with stunning countryside views and a strong sense of community. Landmarks like St Cuthbert’s Church and the Halsall Motte add character to this charming village, making it ideal for families, retirees, and heritage lovers.
Well-Connected Yet Secluded Despite its rural feel, Halsall enjoys excellent road links via the M58 and A5147, providing easy access to Liverpool, Southport, and Ormskirk. Public transport is limited, but regular bus routes and nearby train stations in Ormskirk and Burscough Bridge make commuting manageable. For those who drive, Halsall offers countryside living without sacrificing convenience.
Outstanding Primary School and Family Appeal Families benefit from Halsall St Cuthbert’s CofE Primary School, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. While secondary schools require a short commute, nearby options like Birkdale High School and St Bede’s Catholic High School offer solid academic reputations. The village’s low crime rates and green surroundings create a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Local Lifestyle and Community Spirit Halsall offers essential amenities including a convenience store, village hall, and cosy pubs like The Sandpipers Inn. Community events such as summer fetes, Christmas markets, and the popular Bickerstock music festival foster a vibrant local spirit. For shopping, dining, and healthcare, residents head to nearby Ormskirk or Southport.
Outdoor Living and Scenic Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Halsall, with access to canal-side walks, bridleways, and nearby green spaces like Ruff Wood and Coronation Park. Whether it’s cycling, dog walking, or birdwatching, the village offers a healthy, active lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.
LATHOM
Historic Village with Countryside Prestige Lathom is a tranquil village near Ormskirk, steeped in history and surrounded by open farmland and scenic waterways. Once the seat of the Stanley family and home to Lathom House, the area offers a unique blend of heritage and rural elegance. With views stretching to the Welsh Hills and a strong sense of community, Lathom is perfect for families, retirees, and professionals seeking peaceful living with character.
Well-Connected Yet Secluded Despite its countryside setting, Lathom enjoys excellent road links via the M58, M6, and A59, making commuting to Liverpool, Preston, and Manchester straightforward. Nearby Ormskirk Station provides rail access, while local bus routes connect residents to surrounding towns like Burscough and Skelmersdale—ideal for those who want rural charm without sacrificing convenience.
Family-Friendly with Good Schools Nearby While Lathom itself has limited school options, nearby choices like Lathom Park CofE Primary, St John’s Catholic Primary, and Burscough Village Primary are rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. Secondary options include Burscough Priory Academy, also rated ‘Good’. Parks, playgrounds, and low crime rates contribute to a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Local Amenities and Village Life Lathom offers essentials like a SPAR, hair salons, and cosy pubs such as The Ship at Lathom and Ring O’ Bells. Community events, including seasonal fairs and family picnics at Coronation Park, foster a vibrant local spirit. For broader shopping and dining, residents head to nearby Ormskirk or Burscough Wharf.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Lathom, with access to Beacon Country Park, the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, and scenic walking trails. Whether it’s birdwatching, cycling, or a peaceful stroll, the village offers a healthy, active lifestyle surrounded by greenbelt land and historic landscapes.
LYTHAM
Coastal Sophistication with Village Charm Lytham is a stylish seaside town on the Fylde Coast, offering a refined lifestyle with stunning views across the Ribble Estuary. Known for its iconic windmill, cobbled streets, and tree-lined avenues, Lytham blends historic elegance with modern convenience. It’s ideal for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a peaceful yet vibrant community.
Excellent Transport Links and Accessibility Lytham railway station provides direct services to Blackpool, Preston, and Manchester, making it perfect for commuters. The nearby M55 and M6 motorways offer smooth road access across the North West, while Blackpool Airport is just 15 minutes away for domestic and international travel.
Strong Schools and Family Appeal Families benefit from reputable schools such as Lytham CE Primary, St Peter’s RC Primary, and Lytham St Annes High School, all offering solid academic foundations. The town’s low crime rates and green spaces make it a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Thriving High Street and Leisure Scene Lytham’s town centre is packed with independent boutiques, stylish cafés, and restaurants offering global cuisine. From Stringers department store to pavement cafés on Clifton Street, the area delivers a lively yet laid-back lifestyle. Residents enjoy events at Lowther Pavilion, local markets, and a buzzing arts scene.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Lytham, with scenic walks along the Green, Fairhaven Lake, and the Leeds–Liverpool Canal. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, a world-renowned course that has hosted the Open Championship. Whether it’s birdwatching, cycling, or a sunset stroll, outdoor living is part of everyday life.
MAWDESLEY
Village Tranquillity with Historic Roots Mawdesley is a picturesque village nestled between Ormskirk, Croston, and Tarleton, offering a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by open countryside. With a history dating back to the 12th century, landmarks like Mawdesley Hall and St Peter’s Church add timeless charm. The village thrives on strong community values, making it ideal for families, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
Well-Connected Yet Secluded Despite its rural setting, Mawdesley enjoys good road links via the A59, M6, and M58, offering easy access to Preston, Southport, and Liverpool. While public transport is limited, nearby stations such as Croston, Rufford, and Parbold provide rail connections, and local bus routes link residents to surrounding towns.
Strong Schools and Family Appeal Families benefit from access to Mawdesley St Peter’s CofE Primary School (‘Good’ by Ofsted) and nearby Trinity and St Michael’s VA Primary (‘Outstanding’). Secondary options include Bishop Rawstorne Academy in Croston. The village’s low crime rates and green spaces create a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Local Amenities and Community Spirit Mawdesley offers essentials like a SPAR, post office, hair salons, and pubs such as The Red Lion and The Eagle & Child. The village hall hosts regular events, clubs, and social groups, while the first-class cricket ground and fitness centre add to the active lifestyle. Community events like Bickerstock music festival and seasonal fairs foster a vibrant local spirit.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Mawdesley, with access to Mawdesley Millennium Green, Moss Fields Conservation Area, and scenic trails ideal for walking and cycling. The surrounding countryside offers fresh air, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views—perfect for weekend adventures and peaceful living.
ORMSKIRK
Historic Market Town with Modern Energy Ormskirk is a vibrant town steeped in history, dating back to its Royal Charter in 1286. Famous for its weekly market, gingerbread heritage, and Edge Hill University, the town blends tradition with contemporary living. Its pedestrianised centre, iconic Clock Tower, and independent shops create a lively atmosphere that appeals to families, professionals, and students alike.
Excellent Transport Links and Accessibility Ormskirk offers superb connectivity via Ormskirk railway station, with direct services to Liverpool and Preston. The nearby M58 and A59 make commuting to Manchester, Southport, and Skelmersdale straightforward. Local bus routes and proximity to Aughton Park and Town Green stations enhance travel options for residents.
Outstanding Education and Family Appeal Families benefit from excellent schools such as Aughton Christ Church CofE Primary (‘Outstanding’) and Ormskirk West End Primary (‘Good’). Secondary options include St Bede’s Catholic High School and Ormskirk School, while Edge Hill University adds a youthful vibrancy and academic prestige to the town.
Thriving High Street and Leisure Scene Ormskirk’s town centre is packed with independent cafés, pubs, and restaurants—from Booths supermarket and Burchall’s pies to artisan coffee shops and tapas bars. The historic Charter Market, held every Thursday and Saturday, offers fresh produce, street food, and local crafts, while events like the Gingerbread Festival and Ormskirk Beer Festival foster a strong community spirit.
Green Spaces and Outdoor Living Residents enjoy access to Coronation Park, Ruff Wood, and Gorse Hill Nature Reserve, offering scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and family-friendly recreation. Nearby attractions include Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Formby National Trust, and Rufford Old Hall, perfect for weekend adventures.
PARBOLD
Scenic Village Living with Historic Charm Parbold is a picturesque village nestled beneath Parbold Hill, offering panoramic views across the West Lancashire Plain and even as far as Wales on a clear day. With its roots in the Domesday Book and a name meaning “Pear Orchard,” Parbold blends rural tranquillity with rich heritage—perfect for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a peaceful yet well-connected lifestyle.
Excellent Transport Links for Commuters Despite its countryside setting, Parbold is superbly connected via its own railway station, offering direct services to Liverpool, Manchester, and Southport. The nearby M6 motorway ensures smooth road access across the North West, while local bus routes and cycle paths make getting around easy and eco-friendly.
Outstanding Schools and Family Appeal Families benefit from two ‘Outstanding’-rated primary schools: Parbold Douglas Church of England Academy and Our Lady and All Saints RC Primary. Parks like Alder Lane Playing Fields and Chapel Lane Meadow offer safe outdoor spaces, while community events like the Parbold Village Show and Muddy Church foster a nurturing environment for children.
Thriving Village Centre and Local Spirit Parbold’s high street is packed with independent shops, cafés, and pubs like The Windmill, The Stocks Tavern, and Margot Wine Bar. Residents enjoy artisan lunches at Yours Is The Earth, art exhibitions at Mill House Gallery, and live music at Parbold Village Hall, which also hosts cinema nights and classical concerts.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Parbold, with scenic walks along the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, woodland trails at Fairy Glen, and panoramic hikes up Parbold Hill. Nearby Beacon Country Park and Chapel Lane Meadow offer wildlife spotting, cycling, and peaceful escapes—ideal for those who value outdoor living.
RUFFORD
Historic Village with Countryside Charm Rufford is a picturesque village nestled between Ormskirk and Tarleton, offering a tranquil lifestyle steeped in history. With roots dating back to the Domesday Book, Rufford is home to landmarks like Rufford Old Hall, a 16th-century manor house managed by the National Trust. The village’s white-walled cottages, scenic marina, and leafy lanes make it a haven for heritage lovers and countryside seekers alike.
Well-Connected Yet Peaceful Despite its rural feel, Rufford is well-connected via Rufford railway station, offering direct services to Southport, Manchester, and Preston. The nearby A59 and M6 provide smooth road access across the North West, while local bus routes link residents to surrounding towns. It’s ideal for commuters who want countryside living without sacrificing convenience.
Good Schools and Family Appeal Families benefit from nearby schools like Rufford CofE Primary and Holmeswood Methodist School, both rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. While secondary options may require travel, nearby towns offer solid academic alternatives. The village’s low crime rates and green surroundings create a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Local Lifestyle and Community Spirit Rufford offers a vibrant village life with independent cafés like Tastebuds at the Wharf and The Boathouse Brasserie, both popular for their homemade cakes and marina views. Pubs such as The Hesketh Arms and bakeries like Rosebuds Farm Bakery add to the local flavour. Community events like Bickerstock music festival and seasonal fairs foster a strong sense of belonging.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Rufford, with scenic walks along the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, River Douglas, and nearby Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve. Whether it’s birdwatching, cycling, or a peaceful stroll, the village offers a healthy, active lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.
SCARISBRICK
Countryside Living with Historic Roots Scarisbrick is a peaceful village nestled between Ormskirk and Southport, offering a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by open farmland, canals, and historic landmarks. With roots dating back to the Domesday Book, the area is home to Scarisbrick Hall, a Grade I listed Gothic mansion, and charming hamlets like Bescar, Snape Green, and Pinfold. It’s perfect for families, retirees, and countryside lovers seeking space, privacy, and heritage.
Well-Connected Yet Secluded Despite its rural feel, Scarisbrick enjoys excellent road links via the A570, A5147, and nearby M58, making commuting to Liverpool, Southport, and Ormskirk straightforward. Regular bus services and proximity to Bescar Lane railway station offer public transport options, while Ormskirk Station provides direct rail access to major cities.
🎓 Good Schools and Family Appeal Families benefit from Scarisbrick St Mark’s CofE Primary School (‘Good’ by Ofsted) and nearby options like St Mary’s Catholic Primary. While secondary schools require travel, nearby towns offer solid academic choices. Parks, woodland walks, and low crime rates contribute to a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Local Amenities and Village Life Scarisbrick offers essentials like a post office, GP practices, and cosy pubs such as Master McGraths and The Scarisbrick Arms, a 17th-century coaching inn turned gastropub. Community events, farmers markets, and nearby shopping in Ormskirk and Southport add to the village’s appeal.
Outdoor Living and Natural Beauty Nature lovers thrive in Scarisbrick, with scenic walks along the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, Scarisbrick Hall Woodland, and nearby Martin Mere Wetland Centre. Whether it’s birdwatching, cycling, or peaceful strolls, the village offers a healthy, active lifestyle surrounded by greenbelt land and wildlife.
POULTON – LE – FYDE
Historic Market Town with Modern Appeal
Poulton-le-Fylde is one of Lancashire’s most attractive market towns, combining centuries of history with a vibrant town centre. Its cobbled marketplace, independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and Georgian architecture create a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike. The town offers a strong sense of community while providing all the conveniences of modern living.
Excellent Connectivity Across the Fylde Coast
Ideally positioned between Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, and Preston, Poulton-le-Fylde benefits from outstanding transport links. The town has its own railway station with direct services to Blackpool and Preston, while the nearby M55 connects residents to the wider motorway network. Manchester, Liverpool, and the Lake District are all within comfortable travelling distance.
Well-Regarded Schools and Family Living
Poulton-le-Fylde is highly regarded for its excellent educational opportunities, making it a popular choice for families. The area is served by a selection of well-performing primary schools alongside respected secondary schools, including Hodgson Academy and St Aidan’s Church of England High School. Combined with its safe neighbourhoods and community atmosphere, the town continues to attract long-term residents.
Independent Shopping and Thriving Community
The bustling market square remains the heart of Poulton-le-Fylde, offering independent retailers, artisan food outlets, cafés, and traditional pubs. A weekly market, seasonal events, and community celebrations contribute to the town’s lively character, while nearby retail parks and Blackpool provide further shopping and leisure opportunities.
Green Spaces and the Fylde Lifestyle
Surrounded by open countryside yet only a short drive from the Fylde Coast, Poulton-le-Fylde offers the best of both worlds. Residents enjoy nearby parks, walking routes, golf courses, and easy access to the beaches of Blackpool, Cleveleys, and Lytham St Annes. The combination of heritage, convenience, and outdoor living makes Poulton-le-Fylde one of Lancashire’s most desirable places to call home.
LONGRIDGE
A Thriving Market Town at the Foot of the Ribble Valley
Longridge is a picturesque market town on the western edge of the Ribble Valley, renowned for its welcoming community, historic stone buildings, and outstanding countryside setting. Surrounded by rolling hills and open farmland, it offers an exceptional balance between rural living and everyday convenience, making it increasingly popular with families, professionals, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
Well Connected to Preston, Clitheroe and Beyond
Positioned just a short drive from Preston, Longridge provides excellent access to the M6, M55, and wider motorway network. The town offers convenient commuting to Preston, Lancaster, Manchester, and Liverpool while retaining its peaceful countryside character. This accessibility makes Longridge an attractive choice for those wanting village-style living without feeling isolated.
Excellent Schools and a Strong Family Community
Longridge has built an excellent reputation as a family-friendly location, supported by highly regarded primary schools and Longridge High School. A wide range of local sports clubs, recreational facilities, and community organisations help create a welcoming environment where families can establish long-term roots.
Independent High Street and Everyday Convenience
The vibrant high street is home to a variety of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, delicatessens, and traditional pubs, giving Longridge a thriving local economy and strong community spirit. Regular markets, local events, and nearby farm shops further enhance its appeal, while larger retail and leisure facilities are easily reached in Preston.
Outstanding Countryside and Outdoor Lifestyle
Longridge is perfectly positioned for those who appreciate the outdoors. With easy access to Longridge Fell, the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, the Ribble Valley, and countless walking and cycling routes, the area offers exceptional opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The combination of beautiful scenery, quality homes, and an enviable lifestyle has established Longridge as one of Lancashire’s most desirable locations for premium living.
Section 01 — The market
Section 02 — What to love
- Country lanes, working farms, and mature gated estates within twenty minutes of Liverpool and thirty of Manchester.
- The Ribble Estuary and Sefton Coast — the sand dunes, pine forests, and salt marshes of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Rufford Old Hall, and a working agricultural landscape that has held its character against development pressure.
- Liverpool in 25 minutes, Manchester Airport in 30, the Lake District 75 minutes north.
- Scarisbrick Hall School, Merchant Taylors’, and the Liverpool grammar schools within easy reach.
Section 03 — Local lifestyle
Life here moves at a pace that feels increasingly rare this close to a major city. Mornings often start with a drive to school along the back lanes, a stop for coffee in Ormskirk or Burscough, then back across the fields before nine. The day expands across the land — dog walks along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, an afternoon at Martin Mere, a late lunch at a local pub before the quiet comes in. Evenings are large kitchens and long dinners rather than late nights out. The Sefton Coast drives the weekends — the walk across the dunes to Formby beach, or north to Ainsdale, takes most of a Saturday morning and requires nothing else.
The county calendar is unhurried: the Royal Lancashire Show at Newby Hall in summer, sailing at Southport Yacht Club, and harvest suppers that run into October. Preston’s Flag Market and Ormskirk’s market town pace hold the winter. The airport is 25 minutes south, and on a clear day the Lake District hills are visible across the moss from the fields east of Scarisbrick.
Section 04 — Dining, entertainment & shopping
For the reliable local evening, Moor Hall at Aughton is the one name every buyer asks about — two Michelin stars, a walled kitchen garden, half an hour by car. The Barn at Moor Hall next door handles the less ceremonial dinner with the same kitchen behind it. In Ormskirk, Bistrot Pierre and the pubs along Church Street cover the midweek. Southport’s The Bold Hotel is the address for a proper pre-theatre evening and anything requiring a sense of occasion.
Shopping runs between Southport’s Lord Street — a civilised boulevard of wine merchants, delicatessens, and a better-than-average jeweller — and Ormskirk town centre for the everyday. Liverpool One is 35 minutes door to door and handles anything the county lacks. Manchester is 45 minutes in the other direction for the larger department stores and independent boutiques on King Street.
Section 05 — Things to do
Rufford Old Hall (National Trust) is the county’s best-kept Saturday morning — a timber-framed great hall from the 1420s, formal gardens, and a Capability Brown landscape around the lake at Rufford New Hall nearby. Martin Mere Wetland Centre is spectacular in migration season; the winter starling murmurations over the meres are among the best in England. The Sefton Coast path runs the full length of the coastline from Crosby Beach — home to Antony Gormley’s Another Place installation — north through the Formby pinewoods and red squirrel reserve to Ainsdale.
For day trips: the Lake District is 75 minutes north, the Yorkshire Dales 80 minutes east, and North Wales 65 minutes south-west. Liverpool’s cultural offer — the Tate Liverpool, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, the theatres on Hope Street, the new Shakespeare North Playhouse at Prescot — is 25 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train from Ormskirk station.
Section 06 — Schools
West Lancashire has a strong independent school provision for primary through sixth form, complemented by the Southport grammar schools and the Liverpool selective schools within reach. The five below are the ones I am most often asked about.
-
01
Scarisbrick Hall School, Ormskirk
Get in touch