Is Whittingham a Nice Place to Live?

Ah, Whittingham—a quaint little village in Preston, Lancashire. It’s one of those places where you can still see the stars at night and hear the birds chirp in the morning. But is it the best place for you? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the nitty-gritty of Whittingham, covering everything from safety and family living to transport links and amenities. By the end, you’ll have a pretty good idea if you’d like to call this place home.

Is Whittingham Safe?

Let’s get straight to it: Whittingham is generally considered quite safe by the locals. Crime here is significantly lower compared to other regions. If you stroll down Cumeragh Lane, for instance, you might notice it’s relatively peaceful despite some historical crime reports. Bleasdale Road and The Croft have also been pretty calm lately. Most of the residents feel secure enough to leave their doors unlocked—though, of course, it’s always wise to be cautious. If you’re looking for a safe community, Whittingham does pretty well on that front.

Is Whittingham a Nice Place to Live for Families?

So, you’ve got a family or planning to start one? Whittingham has a lot going for it in terms of family-friendly features.

Primary & Secondary Schools

When it comes to education, the primary schools in and around Whittingham are quite decent. Grimsargh St Michael’s Church of England Primary School, located not too far, holds an ‘Outstanding’ rating, which is always a plus. Goosnargh Oliverson’s Church of England Primary School and St Francis Catholic Primary School in Goosnargh both have ‘Good’ ratings, making them solid choices too. However, it’s worth mentioning that some of these schools are just outside Whittingham, making it a bit of a competition to get a place.

As for secondary schools, St Cecilia’s RC High School is the nearest option and has a ‘Good’ rating. It’s a bit of a trek but manageable.

Parks and Playgrounds

Whittingham is blessed with open spaces and parks where kids can run around and burn off that boundless energy. There are also several playgrounds dotted around, making it ideal for young families. The local community often organizes family-friendly events, so you’ll never be short of something to do.

Family Activities

The place is swarming with family-friendly activities. From local fairs to community football matches, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. And if you have a dog, you’re in luck—Whittingham is very dog-friendly. Expect to find several walking routes where you and your furry friend can stretch your legs.

Is Whittingham Expensive?

Money talks, and in Whittingham, it whispers gently rather than shouts. The average property price here is around £250,000. Detached houses go for about £295,000, whereas semi-detached homes are a bit more affordable at £205,000. Terraced houses sit somewhere in between at £230,000. Compared to neighbouring areas like Preston, it’s moderately priced, making it a good middle-ground if you want a balance of affordability and quality of life.

Renting? You’ll find fewer options here than in a bustling city, but they do exist. A two-bedroom bungalow might set you back about £950 per month, while a three-bedroom semi-detached house costs around £1050. Availability can be a bit tight, so you might need to act quickly if you find something you like.

What Transport Links are there?

Transport is one of those make-or-break factors when choosing a place to live. Whittingham isn’t too shabby in this department. Several bus routes serve the area, connecting you to Preston and beyond. If you drive, major roads like the M6 are easily accessible, making commuting straightforward. Public transport might not be as frequent as in the city, but it’s reliable enough for most people’s needs.

What Amenities are Available in Whittingham?

You won’t be left wanting when it comes to amenities in Whittingham. For your shopping needs, there’s a Londis supermarket and a charming Village Store for those last-minute essentials. Fancy a night out? The Stags Head and The Grapes Inn are popular local pubs, and Tap & T’Ales is a cosy spot for an evening pint.

If you’re a foodie, there’s the Goosnargh Chippy for your takeaway cravings. And let’s not forget healthcare facilities—there’s a post office, a couple of pharmacies, and even a veterinary clinic if you have pets. Hair salons are also dotted around for that much-needed trim.

What is the Surrounding Outdoor Area Like?

If you love the great outdoors, Whittingham won’t disappoint. The surrounding countryside offers numerous parks and walking trails. Beacon Fell Country Park is a favourite, providing stunning views and woodland walks. Perfect for a weekend picnic or a brisk morning jog.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Whittingham offers a serenely beautiful and safe environment, making it a great choice for families and those looking to escape city life. The schools are decent, the amenities are adequate, and the outdoor spaces are fantastic. While it’s not the cheapest place to live, it provides good value for the quality of life you get.

What are the Alternatives?

If Whittingham doesn’t quite tick all your boxes, you might want to consider nearby areas like Preston or Longridge. Preston offers more in terms of shopping and nightlife but comes with the hustle and bustle of city life. Longridge, on the other hand, is smaller but has a tight-knit community feel. Each has its pros and cons, so it’s worth doing a bit of research to see which best suits your needs.

So there you have it—Whittingham in a nutshell. It’s a lovely place to live for those who appreciate a quieter, more peaceful lifestyle. Whether you’re a young family or someone looking for a slower pace of life, Whittingham has something to offer.