Blackburn is an industrial town that is located in the county of Lancashire, in the North West region of England. At the height of the industrial revolution, Blackburn became the biggest weaving town in the world and a big-timer in the cotton industry. Much of the original architecture still stands in Blackburn today, with the many Grade II listed 19th-century buildings that are dotted across the town. Some of these impressive buildings include the Cotton Exchange, the Old Bank Building, and the exceptional red brick and yellow terracotta Victorian facade of the Art School. With the regeneration of different areas within Blackburn, more residents are being drawn into the area due to the affordability of properties.
A thriving art scene is discoverable in Blackburn where residents and tourists are treated to the three theatres of Darwen Library Theatre, King George's Hall, and Thwaites Empire Theatre, which are all within the town centre. Blackburn offers many beautiful attractions to visit, including the Blackburn Cathedral, Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery, and The Bureau Centre for the Arts. Shopaholics can also explore The Mall Shopping Centre, Blackburn Market, and the many independent and chain stores across the town centre. There's a little something for everybody.
Blackburn has been named the second safest town in Lancashire, although the town still has a 48% higher crime rate than the North West and a 22% higher crime rate than the England, Wales & Northern Ireland overall figure.
Residents who are looking for long-stay parking at either a daily or monthly fee can book private spaces via Yourparkingspace, Parkopedia, or JustPark. Those looking for easily accessible hourly parking can head to the options of Duke Street Car Park, Weir Street Car Park, and Brown Street Car Park, which are all within the town centre and open for 24hrs.
Only a small selection of nightlife options are available to the residents of Blackburn, with a majority of pubs and bars that make up the evening entertainment within the town centre. Some of the most popular venues include The Blackburn Times, Shh! Bar, The Drummer's Arms, and The Firepit Restaurant & Cocktail Bar. However, if locals are in need of a more lively evening, they can head to the nearby cities of Manchester, Leeds or Liverpool.
With 8 ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted-rated schools within Blackburn, families have some good opportunities to provide their children with a good education. Highly-rated Primary and Secondary school options include Wensley Fold CofE Primary Academy, Pleckgate High School, and The Olive School. Blackburn college is the main source of further education, although residents can travel to Preston College, West Lancashire College, and The University of Central Lancashire, for higher education.
With a great mix of accommodations within Blackburn, pet owners are more than likely to find a suitable property for themselves and their furry friends. Dog walkers and adventurers also have a lovely choice of parks across the area, with the local scenic options of Queen's Park, Witton Country Park, Corporation Park, and Griffin Park.
Blackburn train station is served mainly by the Northern Trains service, which provides residents with access to great links. Popular destinations of station include Manchester Piccadilly- 1hr, York- 2hrs, Liverpool Lime Street- 2hrs, and London Euston- 3hrs 20m. The nearest airport to Blackburn is Manchester (MAN) Airport, which residents can reach in 50 minutes by car via the M6. Buses also serve the areas for local travel.