The North West
An intriguing coastline not always given the showcase it should be. Stretching from Cheshire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cumbria it is home to over 7,000,000 people. Like all island dwellers those living within the counties like to watch the waves whenever possible and with the ever increasing road improvements this is entirely possible from anywhere within the region. Due to its distance from London and southern cities this coastline remains predominantly the preserve of the regional population, other than those venturing en-mass into The Lake District – a region made famous by Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth, John Ruskin to name a few.
Just south of The Lake District is Morecombe Bay - the largest expanse of intertidal mudflats and sand in the United Kingdom, covering a total area of 120 square. miles. A favourite destination for seaside trips.
Other than the towns the coastline itself is sparsely populated with villages and hamlets nestling against the sea, many enjoying stunning wide coastal views so inevitably many properties become second homes and available on Air BandB.
Then there are the major better known towns, Southport, Blackpool down to Birkenhead in Cheshire. The thriving business, and cultural centres. Here the 21st century has made its mark in so many ways resulting in hotspots in the property world where values do equate to those in the South East.
One cannot miss referencing specifically The Lake District itself. A UNESCO world heritage site with lakes, mountains and coastline. Whilst a national visitor draw it is home to the farming community and retains the charm of a bygone era in terms of buildings strongly protected by the National Park planning rules. A wonderful location to live particularly for those who enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, walking in one of the most strikingly scenic parts of the British Isles.
1 Sandringham Road, Southport: An elegant Edwardian house professionally renovated, sympathetically combining cutting edge features of modern living whilst retaining the period charm. Set in a favoured North West road within landscaped grounds – simply stunning. www.christinsley.co.uk 01704 512121
Woodhey. Silverdale: Spacious 6 bedroom home close to the beach - carefully renovated to merge period features with modern amenities. A great family home in pretty waterside village within an Area of Outstanding Beauty. www.waterhouseestateagents.co.uk 01524 760048
Whitehouse. Parton. Whitehaven: A prominent house literally a stone’s throw from the beach along the car free Wagon Road with open sea views. Dating back to the early 18th century and updated to 21st century living: A unique waterfront home. www.tiffen.co.uk 01228 515666
Every region within the British Isles has its own culture and none more so than the North West. Home to entrepreneurs through the centuries and many a music talent has emerged from the area – a sure sign of a comfortable home “It’s all about coming home.”