'Hidden gem' Lancashire area with 'half-price' homes and 'happiest' residents
A 'hidden gem' borough in Lancashire has been hailed as one of the happiest and most wallet-friendly places to live.
The latest research from eXp UK, a hub for independent estate agents, shows the top UK spots for living that don't come with an exorbitant price tag, sitting below the national average for property costs. North Kesteven takes the crown for the most cheerful area in the UK housing scene for purchasers keen on value for money.
With a bliss index of 8.09 and an average property price tag of £257,199, this place is viewed as a steal at 12 percent less than the overall UK standard. Yet, there's a 'hidden gem' lurking closer to home with an even better combination of joy and home buying accessibility.
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Pendle scores an impressive happiness rate of 8.06 while flaunting house prices nearly half of the UK's average, £292,059. The East Lancashire borough quaint towns and villages such as Barley, Barrowford, Fence, and Nelson, and modest average property values of £146,516.
Rightmove data shows that most homes exchanged over the past year in Pendle were terraced houses, averaging £116,647. Local estate agents can't stop singing praises about the area, citing everything from its awe-inspiring scenery and pleasant lifestyle to a variety-laden housing market.
Gavin Hilton, director of Hilton and Horsfall Estate Agents which covers Pendle, told the M.E.N: "Pendle has long been a hidden gem in the property market, offering an incredible quality of life paired with affordability. The borough's stunning landscapes, such as the rolling hills of the Pendle countryside and picturesque villages like Barrowford and Fence, are key attractions.
"These areas not only offer idyllic living but also maintain strong community ties that contribute to Pendle's impressive happiness score. With average house prices significantly below the national average - Pendle is particularly appealing to first-time buyers, young families, and retirees seeking value without compromising on lifestyle.
"The area also boasts a diverse housing market, from charming period properties in villages to modern developments, making it accessible to a broad range of buyers."
Anthony Dawson, director of Anthony Dawson Real Estate, agrees, noting it as a 'doorway to the lake district. He said: "Pendle is the Northern sibling of Manchester and people are starting to realise its beauty and affordable pricing.
"Some have even referred to it as being the doorway to the lake district with its own spellbinding historic and scenic country setting surrounding the beauty that is Pendle Hill. Pendle is 30-40 mins away from the edge of Manchester and 30-40 mins away from the edge of the Lake District.
"Truly residing in the 'Goldilocks Zone' of close enough yet far enough away to both Manchester for work and the Lake District for play. And yet the average house price is less than the national average in a setting that is more beautiful than the national average and now rated as one of the happiest places in the UK."
Taking a look at what you can buy for the average house price at the moment, this three-bed terrace in the market town of Colne is on the market for £150,000. Having already been beautifully updated by its previous owner, it has versatile living spaces and luxurious finishes and could be considered move-in ready.
It has a cosy reception room, open-plan kitchen and dining area and a patio area complete with a decked section that currently houses a hot tub. Upstairs, the first floor has a brand-new family bathroom and three bedrooms, including the master with an en-suite.
A standout feature of this property is the additional loft room, which can be tailored to suit your needs as a fourth bedroom, a home office, or a personal gym.
Also on the market for slightly more than the average house price is this two-bed cottage in the 'sought-after' village of Fence, with a guide price of £200,000. The characterful property boasts a living room with a warming wood-burning stove, a modern kitchen combined with exposed stone walls and wooden beams, a modern bathroom, two bedrooms and a study area.
Outside it also boasts breathtaking views of Pendle's countryside from its beautifully maintained garden.