Is Lumb a Nice Place to Live?

Lumb. Tucked away in the Rossendale Valley of Lancashire, this small village might not ring a bell for many, but it has its own unique charm. For those contemplating settling down in this quaint locale, we’ll explore the ins and outs, from safety and family life to cost of living, transport, and amenities. Let’s dive in and see if Lumb might just be the perfect spot for you.

Is Lumb safe?

Safety is always a primary concern when moving to a new area. Generally, Lumb is considered a safe place by its residents. The most common issues reported tend to be anti-social behaviour, mainly concentrated around Shaw Clough Road and Carr Road. This might involve things like noisy neighbours or minor disturbances, but it’s not something that overshadows the overall tranquillity of the area. On or near Foxhill Drive, public order offences have been noted, but these are few and far between. Local opinion suggests that Lumb is a peaceful place to live, where the community looks out for one another.

Is Lumb a nice place to live for families?

When it comes to families, Lumb has a lot to offer.

Schools

The schooling options in and around Lumb are varied. For primary education, there’s Water Primary School, which is just under a mile away and holds a good rating. St Peter’s Roman Catholic Primary School, although technically a bit further afield in Newchurch, has an outstanding rating and is often a first choice for parents. Securing a spot here, however, can be competitive due to its high standing.

Secondary schools present a bit more of a mixed bag. Alder Grange School, considered a good school, is one of the closer options. On the flip side, The Valley Leadership Academy has room for improvement, according to recent assessments. These schools are outside Lumb itself, so be prepared for a bit of a commute.

Parks and Playgrounds

Family activities around Lumb are plentiful. There’s the popular Lumb Millennium Green, a perfect spot for picnics, dog walking, and letting the kids run free. If organised activities are more your thing, nearby towns offer an array of clubs and sports teams to join.

Community Feel

One of the standout features of Lumb is its strong sense of community. Many families have lived here for generations, and newcomers often find themselves warmly welcomed. It’s not unusual to see neighbours stopping for a chat or lending a hand when needed. This close-knit atmosphere makes Lumb a lovely place for raising children.

Is Lumb expensive?

So, here’s the nitty-gritty on house prices and rents. The average property price in Lumb is around £170,000. Terraced houses, the majority of the sales, go for about £175,000. If you’re eyeing something semi-detached, expect to shell out around £145,000, whereas detached homes fetch an average of £230,000.

In terms of rentals, availability can be a bit of a pickle. The market is tight, so if you find something you like, it’s best to snap it up quick. Compared to neighbouring areas like Rawtenstall, Lumb tends to be more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to get more for their money.

What transport links are there?

Now, how about getting around? Public transport in Lumb isn’t bad, considering it’s a small village. There are regular bus services that can whisk you off to nearby towns like Rawtenstall and Bacup. If you’re a driver, the roads are decent, and commuting to larger cities like Manchester is achievable, albeit with a bit of planning. Many locals find the drive manageable and enjoy the balance of rural living with city access.

What amenities are available in Lumb?

Despite its size, Lumb has a surprising array of amenities. The Little Corner Shop covers your basic grocery needs, and for larger hauls, bigger supermarkets are just a short drive away. When it comes to eating out or grabbing a pint, the Hargreaves Arms is a local favourite.

Health care is catered for with nearby GP practices and clinics in Rawtenstall. For the beauty buffs, there are a couple of hair salons and even a laundry service. While you might have to venture out for speciality stores or more diverse dining options, the essentials are well within reach.

What is the surrounding outdoor area like?

Nature lovers, rejoice! Lumb offers ample outdoor spaces to explore. The Lumb Millennium Green is a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll or a family day out. The surrounding Rossendale Valley is a haven for hikers, with numerous trails and breathtaking views. If you’re into cycling, you’ll find plenty of routes to keep you entertained. The countryside here is genuinely stunning and offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

So, what’s the verdict?

So, is Lumb a nice place to live? If you value a close-knit community, enjoy rural settings, and aren’t deterred by a bit of a commute, then Lumb has a lot to offer. The village is safe, family-friendly, and relatively affordable compared to neighbouring areas. While it might lack some of the amenities of a larger town, the essentials are there, and the stunning outdoor spaces more than make up for it. However, the scarcity of rental properties and the competitive school placements might be something to consider.

What are the alternatives?

If Lumb doesn’t tick all your boxes, you might want to look at nearby Rawtenstall. It’s larger, with more amenities and better transport links, but also comes with a higher price tag. Bacup is another option, offering a good balance of affordability and facilities. Each of these areas has its own unique vibe, so it’s worth exploring them to see which feels right for you.

In the end, choosing a place to live is a deeply personal decision. But if you’re after a peaceful, community-focused life with plenty of outdoor adventures, Lumb might just be your perfect match.