Looking to move to a new location? Blackburn might be just the place for you.
For centuries Blackburn was a hotbed of industrial activity, but following a period of regeneration, this large town in Lancashire is now a popular option with first-time homeowners and young families.
Buyers are spoiled for choice with where to live. The town is ranked the second safest in the county and there is a wealth of new build houses in Blackburn as well as plenty of updated older properties. Families should look to be in the catchment area for one of the many Ofsted Outstanding-rated schools which include primary and high schools.
Blackburn’s revamped industrial centre boasts fantastic shops, cafés and restaurants, and conceals historic highlights including the magnificent cathedral and majestic Edwardian King George’s Hall. The town is also surrounded by Lancashire’s hill country which is a patchwork of dramatic moors, serene reservoirs, wooded valleys and quintessential English farmland.
Things to do in and around Blackburn
See a theatre performance
Blackburn Theatre Empire and Darwin Library Theatre sit alongside the dramatic King George’s Hall as the three major performing arts venues in Blackburn. They have a constant rotation of fantastic shows on offer from plays old and new to live music performances.
Blackburn residents can also enjoy seasonal favourites throughout the year such as tranquil carol concerts and raucous pantomimes during December.
Visit the museum and gallery
Blackburn town centre also houses an all-in-one museum and gallery which has a wide variety of fascinating collections to browse.
The items on display range from medieval manuscripts to Egyptian artefacts and Japanese prints, and there is an information exhibition detailing the town’s rich industrial past.
Explore at Turton Tower
Head away from the town centre for a day of exploration at Turton Tower. This protected building dates back to the Middle Ages, with the stone tower and monochrome details added during the Tudor period, and sits at the centre of a beautiful country estate.
Hidden in the grounds is an adventure playground where kids can spend hours playing in the spring and summer.
Walk the West Pennine Moors
Blackburn has an enviable position at the heart of the Lancashire countryside. Residents can take advantage of 280 miles of trails through the West Pennine Moors, with routes ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes.
Child-friendly circular walks include riverside paths through Witton Country Park and the track around Deans Clough Reservoir. For a longer romp, walk 7.5km from Great Harwood to the 19th-century Maltholme Viaduct or tackle the 13.5km trek around the hills and waterways of Feniscowles.
