Today, historic Longridge is a vibrant and thriving community – the Gateway to the Ribble Valley – a recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with great opportunities for walking, cycling, gliding, golf and many, many more outdoor activities.
With a population in of 8,324 at the 2020 census (up around 11% since the 2011 census), Longridge is a developing and ever changing community. As a major Service Centre in the Ribble Valley, the town has a wealth of resources for both existing residents and people looking to move into the area.
Our location is a perfect balance of rural opportunity, and practical proximity – with a frequent and convenient bus service, only 4 miles from the motorway network (M6 Junction 31A) and a short bus ride from the West Coast mainline service at Preston Station (London Euston in just over 2 hours), it’s a great place for a base.
From a background of supporting the rural community, Longridge has a wide variety of independent businesses – retail and commercial – offering both services and employment opportunities. With two large NHS surgeries, a Community Hospital, and a range of other related services, be it pharmacies, physiotherapists, dentists, or chiropodists, Longridge offers health services for all residents – and we are close to Preston with its NHS Teaching Trust hospital (RPH).
Longridge supports a wide range of charity and volunteer organisations, including Longridge Heritage Society, Longridge Environment Group and many more.
Some great schools in the town too – at primary level, we have Alston Lane, Barnacre Road, Berry Lane and St Wilfrid’s, whilst our two high schools – Longridge High and St Cecilia’s – both enjoy a great reputation. In addition there are a range of pre-school nurseries and child care options as well as a number of specialist schools.
Socially, there are a wide range of pubs, restaurants and takeaways, both in Longridge and close by in the Ribble Valley. There are gyms – including a Community Gym at the Civic Hall – of which more below… Be it music, darts, drama, dance, art, environmental action, walking and cycling groups, and a wide range of other activities, Longridge caters for all.
Longridge Civic Hall is run by an independent non-profit organisation and offers a wide range of activities and events – from music to film, gym to line dancing, children’s activities to senior citizen clubs, the Civic Hall has a full and interesting programme for all. Also of note are the annual Field Day and the Goosnargh & Longridge Agricultural Show, plus many more community events, bringing together the friendly community of Longridge.
This page is too short to cover everything – come to Longridge and find out more – it’s a great place to live!