THE 'PICTURE PERFECT' MARKET TOWN IDEAL FOR A ROMANTIC WEEKEND THAT'S ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN THE NORTH WEST
A charming market town nestled on the fringes of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, perfect for a romantic weekend getaway, has been recognised as one of the best places to live in the UK - and it's conveniently accessible from Lancashire.
Kirkby Lonsdale is a small town located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Its delightful high street appears as though it's been lifted directly from a picture-perfect postcard, featuring a line of charming independent shops, an exceptional bakery complete with its own tea rooms, and several cosy pubs that are ideal for unwinding after a refreshing countryside stroll.
The historic town's unique location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the Forest of Bowland. The charming market town has earned a spot among The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2025, sponsored by Halifax.
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Parbold, in West Lancs, was named as one of the best places to live in the UK in the annual guide while Woolton, in Liverpool, clinched the top spot for the North West.
The Sunday Times judges said: "There's a commanding view over every horizon, but this handsome market town - marking the sweet spot where Lancashire, Cumbria and North Yorkshire meet - is all heart. After a fire that devastated many of the shops on Main Street in December, the community is pulling together with its trademark good-heartedness and gumption.
"There's a lot on offer: Kirkby Lonsdale is crammed with independent stores, cafés, pubs and volunteer-run activities and the schools are justly popular."
Kirkby Lonsdale boasts the historic Devil's Bridge from the 14th century and Ruskin's View, which famously inspired JMW Turner's painting in 1822. The renowned scene is a brief stroll from the town square, leading through the old churchyard to the celebrated viewpoint, the ECHO reports.
Every Thursday, the town centre's market square becomes a bustling hub for the Charter Market, showcasing local artisans, crafters and producers. Overlooking the square is The Royal Hotel, a refined Georgian townhouse hotel that welcomes dogs and features 14 uniquely styled rooms.
On the flip side of the town centre lies The Sun Inn, marrying the allure of a 17th-century inn with oak flooring, open fires, and leather seating, alongside modern hotel amenities. Both establishments also house their own restaurants, offering dining options for guests during their stay.
A favourite among walkers and visitors is the Lunesdale Bakery on Main Street. The self-proclaimed 'proper bakers' whip up fresh bread, pastries, cakes and pies daily, and they also prepare sandwiches for the ideal packed lunch during a weekend stroll.
Just a stone's throw away from the bakery is The Milking Parlour, an artisan ice cream shop known for its long queues on balmy summer days. The staff at the ice cream parlour, situated on Jingling Lane, craft all their own artisan ice cream following a traditional Italian gelato recipe.
They offer over 20 scrumptious flavours, including dairy and gluten free options. The parlour also serves fresh waffles, milkshakes and hot chocolates every day.
One of Kirkby Lonsdale's biggest draws for couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway is the abundance of pubs and bars where guests can enjoy a cosy drink. The Royal Barn features 14 handpulls and 8 keg taps, along with a wide selection of wines and spirits, including their own Kirkby Lonsdale gins, rums and vodka.
This cosy venue regularly hosts live music and comedy nights, and offers a menu of delicious pizzas and breakfast dishes. Just steps away from the barn's entrance is The Snooty Fox, a laid-back pub with a large beer garden that also provides accommodation upstairs for visitors to the town.
Around the corner from these pubs is The Kings Arms, a charming pub illuminated by twinkling fairy lights, which also has three cottages available for tourists to book. Besides the local walks that include Devil's Bridge and Ruskin's View, Kirkby Lonsdale is also a brief car journey away from Ingleton Waterfalls Trail.
This captivating trail features six distinct waterfalls and offers a romantic walking route with numerous picturesque spots to pause and appreciate the scenery, as well as a picnic area along the way. The town is less than a 60-minute drive from Preston via the M6, with parking facilities available in the market square and slightly further up the road from the town centre, adjacent to The Royal Barn.
2025-03-22T15:11:31Z