Is Earby a Nice Place to Live?

Earby, a charming village tucked away in the borough of Pendle, Lancashire, is a place often overlooked in favour of its more well-known neighbours like Barnoldswick or Skipton. But that doesn’t mean you should write it off. On the contrary, Earby has a lot to offer potential residents, from its close-knit community and remarkable scenery to its handy amenities. In this article, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details to give you a clear picture of what living in Earby is really like.

Is Earby safe?

When it comes to safety, Earby generally scores well compared to regional averages. The locals will often tell you that it’s a place where people still leave their doors unlocked—a quaint but perhaps exaggerated example of the general feeling of security. Crime here is considerably lower than the regional average, especially when it comes to more serious offences. For example, the number of burglaries is substantially lower than what you might find in neighbouring areas. Aspen Lane and Linden Road see the most incidents, mainly involving anti-social behaviour and other minor infractions, but nothing that should drastically impact your peace of mind.

Is Earby a nice place to live for families?

Earby has its charms, especially for families. The village is known for its welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere, ideal for raising children. However, it’s not without its drawbacks.

Parks and Playgrounds

There are a few nice parks and playgrounds in and around Earby where kids can run off some energy. For instance, the playground near Rushton Avenue and another on Cemetery Road are popular spots for families. These areas are usually bustling with children and make for a great place to meet other parents.

Schools

When it comes to schooling, Earby does fall a bit short. While there are decent primary schools within a couple of miles—like Kelbrook Primary School, Thornton in Craven Community Primary School, and Salterforth Primary School—none of them are rated outstanding. The closest secondary school, West Craven High School, unfortunately requires improvement. This can make it challenging to secure a spot for your children, with the catchment areas being quite competitive.

Is Earby expensive?

One of the big draws of Earby is its affordability compared to neighbouring areas like Skipton and Colne. Over the last year, the average property price here has been around £180,000. Terraced houses are particularly popular, usually selling for about £140,000. Semi-detached homes go for around £225,000, while detached properties can fetch up to £365,000. If you’re looking to rent, options are a bit more limited but reasonably priced. For example, a two-bedroom maisonette can be rented for about £550 a month.

What transport links are there?

Earby is well-connected via road and public transport, making commuting relatively hassle-free. The village is served by several bus routes that can take you to nearby towns and cities. If you’re driving, the A56 and A59 are just a short distance away, offering easy access to Colne and Skipton. While Earby doesn’t have its own train station, the nearest one is in Colne, which is only a short drive away and can connect you to larger cities like Manchester and Leeds.

What amenities are available in Earby?

For a village of its size, Earby has a good range of amenities to cater to your daily needs. You’ll find several convenience stores, such as the Co-op Food, and a local grocery shop, S&B Fruits. Dining options include a mix of cuisines, from Chinese at Jade Palace to a more traditional British fare at Humble Pie coffee shop. When it comes to pubs and bars, you’ve got a few cosy options like The Punch Bowl, The Red Lion, and The White Lion.

Aside from that, Earby also offers essential services like a doctor’s surgery, a pharmacy, a post office, and even a library. For fitness enthusiasts, there’s a gym, and for those in need of a trim, there are a few barber shops and hair salons around.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

One of Earby’s biggest selling points is its proximity to nature. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Places like Earby Waterfalls Park and the Earby Recreation Ground are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. If you’re into hiking or cycling, the nearby Yorkshire Dales provide an extensive network of trails and paths.

So, what’s the verdict?

Living in Earby has its ups and downs. On the plus side, it offers a safe environment, a close-knit community, and affordable housing. The downside? Schooling options could be better, and there are limited rental properties available. If you’re after a quiet, affordable life with easy access to nature and decent amenities, Earby might just be the perfect fit.

What are the alternatives?

If Earby doesn’t quite hit the mark for you, there are a few nearby alternatives worth considering. Barnoldswick, for instance, offers more shopping and dining options as well as better schooling. Meanwhile, Colne has excellent transport links and a wider range of amenities, though it can be a bit pricier. Skipton is another good option, especially if you’re willing to pay a premium for outstanding schools and a bustling town centre.

Ultimately, whether Earby is the right choice for you depends on your personal priorities and lifestyle needs. But hopefully, this article has given you a clearer picture to help you make that decision.