Is New Longton a Nice Place to Live?

New Longton, nestled in the outskirts of Preston in Lancashire, is a quaint village that has managed to retain its charm despite the rapid urbanisation happening around it. It’s a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquillity of village life with the convenience of nearby city amenities. But is it really as idyllic as it seems? Let’s take a closer look at what living in New Longton is actually like.

Is New Longton safe?

Safety-wise, New Longton is generally considered a safe and peaceful place to live. Local residents often talk about the strong sense of community and the low levels of crime, especially compared to nearby areas. It’s not uncommon to see kids playing outside and neighbours looking out for each other. However, like any place, it’s not without its issues. Anti-social behaviour does pop up from time to time, particularly near the police station, but these incidents are relatively rare and usually dealt with promptly.

One story that made the rounds in the local news involved a group of teenagers who decided to ‘borrow’ a shopping trolley for a joyride. Luckily, no one was hurt, and the teens were swiftly caught and given a stern talking-to. Incidents like these are more the exception than the rule, though, and most people feel perfectly safe walking around New Longton, even at night.

Is New Longton a nice place to live for families?

When it comes to family-friendly living, New Longton certainly ticks a lot of boxes. The village has a variety of parks and playgrounds where kids can burn off their boundless energy. The Community Green is a popular spot for family picnics and weekend outings. Plus, there are always family activities happening, from local fairs to sports events, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Primary Schools

Education is a big deal for families, and New Longton offers a decent selection of primary schools. New Longton All Saints CofE Primary School is well-regarded and consistently receives good ratings. It’s a stone’s throw away, making morning drop-offs a breeze. Howick Church Endowed Primary School and Penwortham Broad Oak Primary School are also good options, though they can be a bit tricky to get into due to catchment areas.

Secondary Schools

For secondary education, residents have a couple of excellent choices. All Hallows Catholic High School is outstanding and offers top-notch education. Hutton Church of England Grammar School is another good option, although, like the primary schools, getting a place can sometimes be a challenge due to the competition.

Is New Longton expensive?

When it comes to property prices, New Longton isn’t the cheapest place to live, but it’s not prohibitively expensive either. The average house price in New Longton over the past year was around £330,000. Detached properties are particularly popular, fetching around £400,000 on average. If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, semi-detached houses go for about £250,000.

Rents can be a bit on the higher side, partly due to the limited availability of rental properties. This scarcity can make it a bit challenging for renters, but buying is a solid investment given the area’s appeal. If you’re looking for more affordable options, neighbouring areas like Penwortham and Lostock Hall offer slightly lower prices, though you might miss out on some of the village charm that New Longton offers.

What transport links are there?

Transport-wise, New Longton is fairly well-connected. There are regular bus routes that can whisk you into Preston or further afield. If you’re a commuter, the A59 provides easy access to the M6, making travel to nearby cities like Manchester and Liverpool fairly straightforward. While there’s no train station in the village itself, nearby stations in Preston offer comprehensive rail services, so you’re never too far from where you need to be.

What amenities are available in New Longton?

New Longton may be a small village, but it doesn’t skimp on amenities. For your daily shopping needs, there are a couple of convenience stores like New Longton Post Office & Convenience Store and Kam’s Corner Shop. If you’re looking for something a bit more specialised, Taylors Farm offers a range of fresh produce and grocery items.

When it comes to dining out, you’re spoilt for choice. Stickyweeds is a cosy coffee shop that’s perfect for a relaxed brunch. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, The Farmer’s Arms is a friendly local pub where you can unwind with a pint.

Healthcare facilities are also readily available, with a local doctor, pharmacy, and even a veterinary care centre. For those who like to keep active, there’s a swimming pool, and if you’re in need of a trim, there are a couple of hair salons and barber shops to choose from.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

If you’re an outdoorsy type, you’ll love the surrounding area. The Community Green is a lovely spot for walks and picnics, and there are plenty of other parks and green spaces to explore. The nearby countryside offers excellent walking and cycling routes, perfect for a weekend adventure. Whether you’re into birdwatching or just fancy a peaceful stroll, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied.

So, what’s the verdict?

So, is New Longton a nice place to live? On the whole, yes. It’s safe, family-friendly, and offers a good mix of amenities and outdoor activities. The schools are decent, and while it can be a bit pricey, the quality of life you get in return is well worth it. There are some minor drawbacks, like the occasional bout of anti-social behaviour and the limited rental market, but these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things.

What are the alternatives?

If New Longton doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, there are a few nearby alternatives worth considering. Penwortham is a bit more affordable and offers a similar village feel, though it can be busier. Lostock Hall is another option, offering good amenities and slightly lower property prices. If you’re after a more urban vibe, Preston itself has a lot to offer, from bustling shopping districts to a vibrant nightlife. Each of these areas has its own pros and cons, so it’s worth taking the time to explore them to see which one suits you best.