Lancashire is a county occupying northwestern England, steeped in history and pastoral riches. The cradle of modern civilisation, it has led innovation on many fronts, from engineering to architecture and forensics.
Today, Lancashire is defined by its natural landscapes, sinuous rivers, and tight-knit communities. From charming small towns to seaside villages, Lancashire is ideal for those who appreciate rustic beauty and a serene lifestyle.
Read on to discover the best places to live in Lancashire.
Lancaster
Lancaster is one of Lancashire’s most notable cities, as well as one of England’s chief heritage centres. Its history dates back to the 1st century CE and is marked by landmarks such as the Lancaster Roman Fort, Lancaster Castle, and the Lancaster Cathedral.
The city is perched on the banks of the River Lune, dotted with countless museums, memorials, and mediaeval structures. It is also a vital commercial centre, with robust manufacturing, agricultural, tourism, and retail industries — most of these businesses have flourished in the city for nearly a century, fostering a sense of kinship and communal pride.
The city’s education sector is particularly illustrious, presenting a range of reputed grammar schools and private institutions. It is home to Lancaster University, which is among the country’s top 12 universities as per the Guardian University Guide and the Sunday Times.
The city’s business prospects, rich heritage, family-friendly amenities, and strong community make it one of Lancashire’s best cities to live in.
Lytham
Located on the Fylde coast, Lytham is a picturesque seaside town renowned for its historic homes, golf courses, and sophisticated lifestyle.
The streets are lined with elegant Victorian and Edwardian villas, while the coastlines brim with an array of bird families and over 250 plant species. Its iconic city centre hosts a multitude of upscale boutiques, coffee shops, posh wine bars, and exclusive eateries.
This seaside town is one of Lancashire’s more affluent regions, with its population being among the wealthiest in Northern England. The average price of a home in Lytham is about £349,000, which is slightly above the country’s average of £281,000.
Wiswell
Wiswell has earned the tag of one of Lancashire’s poshest villages. The Telegraph famously described the hamlet as a “small chocolate box village” that offers individuals “the best of both worlds.” It is located in Ribble Valley, a borough known for being the happiest place in the country, according to the Office of National Statistics.
From listed buildings to cobbled streets and lush natural landscapes, the quaint alcove epitomises the idealised British village. It has only one gastropub, the Freemasons Arms, which has consistently featured in the “Top 50 Gastropubs” list. It has a handful of local shops, a few churches, and a couple of prime grammar schools.
Wiswell has a 1000-strong, well-heeled population. House prices average at £693,000, evidencing the sheer exclusivity of the village.
Caton
Caton is a small village situated in the lower Lune Valley. It is characterised by its undulating hills, verdant parklands, and expansive wilderness. With a small population of 2,700 and a treasure trove of mediaeval buildings, Caton is indeed a hidden gem in Northern England.
The village is famous for its scenic hiking routes, annual circus gala, independent shops, and charming taverns. It is also bounded by a miscellany of luxury villas and premium developments that present arresting views of England’s emerald-hued pastures. According to Garrington Property Finders, Caton is the fourth-best place to live in the UK, scoring well in the realms of natural beauty, architectural finesse, green credentials, and overall quality of life.
Clitheroe
Clitheroe is a vibrant market town located in Ribble Valley, England’s happiest place. According to the Sunday Times, it is one of the best places to live in North England. Further, as per ONS data, it is also one of the healthiest towns in the region.
Dating to the Saxon times, Clitheroe is shrouded in historic lore. Its most notable landmark is the Clitheroe Castle, which is the smallest Norman castle in the country. Over the years, it evolved into a delightful small town, with its own community festivals, grammar schools, and football teams. Small creative businesses, tourism, and gastronomy thrive here.
At present, the town is known for its kaleidoscope of simple pleasures, from quaint streets to independent stores, small cafes, galleries, and restaurants – one of its most famous shops is the Cowman’s Famous Sausage Shop, which sells 75 varieties of sausages. Its people are well-known for their hospitality and warmth, underscoring the town’s inspiring happiness rates.
Leyland
Leyland is a charming market town, famous for its historic truck and bus building industry. With its industrial heritage, tranquil country charm, and quality lifestyle amenities, Leyland is the ultimate homestead for families.
Key landmarks include the South Ribble Museum and Exhibition Centre, the British Commercial Vehicle Museum, and the St. Ambrose Church. Its market, which has been thriving since the 18th century, is particularly chipper, enlivened by hundreds of stalls selling local produce, souvenirs, and artisanal confectionaries.
The compact city hosts a wide range of reputed schools, a college, a stable housing market, and an impressive motor manufacturing company. It has been voted “Britain’s friendliest city” by Channel 4’s show, “Best Place To Live.” Additionally, the city also offers a promising luxury development market.
Poulton-le-Fylde
Poulton-le-Fylde, commonly known as Poulton, is a small market town known for its parklands, period architecture, and leisure.
Poulton used to be a prominent Roman settlement before evolving into a key commercial centre during mediaeval times with its triannual markets. Situated near the River Wyre, Poulton was known as the "metropolis of the Fylde" in the 19th century.
While its commercial appeal slowly receded to the background with the development of other cities, Poulton has successfully retained its industrious worth to this day — agriculture and other small businesses flourish in Poulton, contributing to its markedly low unemployment rate.
Today, Poulton hosts a zestful high street; a shopping centre with coveted food, drink, and fashion offerings; old-school English pubs; and family-friendly amenities such as schools and children’s farms.
Lancashire has enraptured countless retirees, travellers, and digital nomads over the years with its stellar natural beauty. It has also attracted businessmen and innovators, with its tremendous industrial potential. From Lancaster to Poulton, these are the best places to live in Lancashire.
