The North West of England is a region with so much to offer. Whether you’re after bustling cities, quiet rural retreats or stunning coastlines, the North West has it all. Despite the stereotype of rainfall, the region boasts some of the warmest areas in the UK, especially in the months of July and August. Here are just a few of the best places to live in the North West of England.
Manchester
Manchester is the largest and most vibrant city in the North West of England. With a lively atmosphere, thriving nightlife and world-class food and drink scene, Manchester is the perfect place for young professionals and students. There is an array of great transport links including a major airport, making it easy to travel across the UK and beyond. Home to Manchester United and Manchester City football clubs, Manchester offers a rich sporting culture, with arenas and stadiums hosting a variety of sports all year round. In 2017, The Economist named Manchester the best place in the UK to live due to its excellent schools, affordable housing and low crime rates.
Liverpool
Located on the Mersey River, Liverpool is perhaps best known for being the birthplace of The Beatles. However, the city has a lot more to offer than just its music scene. Liverpool has undergone significant regeneration over the last few years, with the Albert Dock and Echo Arena providing world-class entertainment and shopping. Liverpool is home to two major Premier League football clubs, Liverpool and Everton, making it a haven for football fans. Known as the “cultural capital” of the North West, Liverpool’s diverse community welcomes all and has a thriving arts and food scene.
Chester
Located on the border with Wales, Chester is a picturesque city with a fascinating history. Chester is known for its well-preserved Roman walls and its medieval black-and-white timber-framed buildings. The city has a number of excellent schools, making it an ideal spot for families. Chester is also known for its shopping and nightlife, with a thriving city centre filled with shops, restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for a quieter life, Chester also has a number of charming rural villages nearby, such as Tarvin and Tattenhall, which offer a peaceful country location within easy reach of the city.
Lancaster
Lancaster is a historic city on the edge of the Lake District National Park. The city is home to Lancaster Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, and has a range of museums and galleries celebrating the city’s rich history. Lancaster University ranks highly in national league tables, making it a popular choice for students. With a number of beautiful parks and green spaces, Lancaster also offers a great quality of life for families. The city is just 30 minutes from the beautiful coastal town of Morecambe and is easily accessible to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.
Southport
Located on the coast, Southport is a beautiful town with a fantastic beach and promenade. Southport is well known for its old-fashioned pier, amusement park and beautiful botanical gardens. The town also has a world-class golf course and is home to the prestigious Royal Birkdale Golf Club, which has hosted The Open Championship numerous times. The town is perfect for those who want to live by the sea but still be within easy reach of cities such as Liverpool and Manchester.
In conclusion, the North West of England is a fantastic place to live, offering a great quality of life for families, young professionals and students alike. With bustling cities, quaint rural locations and stunning coastlines, there is something for everyone in this region of the UK.
