Living in Chorley

Community and local life in Chorley are shaped by a strong sense of belonging and active engagement, with residents often involved in local societies, sports clubs, and community projects. The historic Chorley Market remains a focal point, drawing people from across the region and strengthening the town’s traditional character.

There are numerous volunteering opportunities and local initiatives, such as Friends of Astley Park and the Chorley in Bloom group, which contribute to the area’s green spaces and communal pride. Community events range from the annual Chorley Flower Show in Astley Park to seasonal festivals, food markets, and parades that bring together residents of all ages.

Outdoor pursuits are central to life here, with easy access to local parks, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal for walks and cycling, and the nearby West Pennine Moors offering breathtaking landscapes. The area supports a balanced lifestyle, with a wealth of green spaces, public sport facilities, and vibrant neighbourhood networks.

Chorley is considered a relatively safe town by Lancashire standards, with crime rates generally lower than larger urban centres in the region. The presence of active community policing teams and initiatives such as Neighbourhood Watch, along with regular liaison between the police and local residents, helps maintain public safety.

Like many towns, some areas of Chorley experience higher incidences of antisocial behaviour, particularly in the town centre during late evenings, but overall, most neighbourhoods are regarded as peaceful and suitable for families. Community-led schemes, youth support programmes, and regular local policing have contributed to a gradual reduction in certain types of crime, and regeneration efforts in selected wards have also improved safety and public spaces. Residents often comment on Chorley’s strong sense of community as a positive factor in the town’s safety profile.

Parking in Chorley is generally straightforward compared to many Lancashire towns. The town centre offers a mix of short and long-stay council-run car parks, many of which provide free or reduced-rate parking at set times. On-street parking is available in several residential neighbourhoods, though some areas operate a resident permit scheme to manage demand during peak times and local events.

Traffic congestion is typically moderate, particularly during rush hours or when the popular Chorley Market is in full swing. Road access from Chorley is a major advantage, with direct entry to the M61 for travel south to Bolton or Manchester, the M6 for journeys north to Preston or south to Liverpool, and the M65 for access to Blackburn and Burnley.

Nearby road travel times include:
Preston – approx. 25 minutes via A6 (11 miles)
Bolton – approx. 25 minutes via M61 (15 miles)
Liverpool – approx. 50 minutes via M6/M58 (34 miles)
Blackburn – approx. 25 minutes via M65 (18 miles)

Chorley's road network is also cycle-friendly, with several routes connecting town and outlying villages. For those needing regular parking in the centre, season permits are available for town car parks, and visitor parking is usually sufficient for most needs.

Food, pubs, and nightlife in Chorley are focused on quality independent venues and relaxed social atmospheres. The town offers a wide variety of dining options: from award-winning butchers and artisan bakeries at Chorley Market to contemporary cafés and family-run restaurants along the main high street. Popular eateries include Italian trattorias, Indian and Thai takeaways, and classic British pubs serving locally-sourced food.

The local pub scene is strong, with characterful establishments like The Prince of Wales and The Crown Hotel, known for their real ales and live music. Microbreweries and craft beer pubs are also making their mark. For those seeking a lively night out, Chorley has a handful of cocktail bars and late-night venues, as well as occasional live events at Chorley Little Theatre and community arts centres.

While Chorley's nightlife is more relaxed than nearby Preston or Manchester, it offers a sociable and friendly experience. Annual events, real ale festivals, and food fairs further enhance the local atmosphere, making Chorley a pleasant choice for evenings out or casual dining.

School quality: Chorley has several well-rated primary and secondary schools, making it attractive for families seeking strong educational options. Many families move here for Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ institutions.

Parks and green spaces: Chorley is blessed with numerous parks such as Astley Park, Yarrow Valley Country Park, and other recreational areas, providing ample space for children to play and families to spend time outdoors.

Childcare: A good selection of nurseries and childminders operate across Chorley, and the area also benefits from after-school and holiday clubs run by schools and the council.

Safety: Most residential neighbourhoods in Chorley are considered safe and peaceful, with community policing and neighbourhood watch schemes active in many parts of town.

Family activities: Beyond parks, Chorley offers children’s play centres, regular family-friendly events, community libraries, and easy access to countryside walks, making it a supportive environment for families of all ages.

Chorley is exceptionally pet-friendly, with an abundance of parks, trails, and countryside for walking and recreation. Astley Park and Yarrow Valley Country Park are standout destinations for dog walking, while the West Pennine Moors and local canal towpaths provide extended routes for outdoor exploration.

There are several veterinary practices and pet shops in the area, as well as local dog groomers and pet-sitting services. Cafés and some pubs welcome dogs, and many housing areas have a relaxed attitude toward responsible pet ownership, with landlords in private rentals becoming more accommodating.

The local council supports responsible pet policies, and dog-friendly events, charity animal walks, and social groups help foster a pet-loving culture throughout Chorley.

Transport and accessibility in Chorley stand out thanks to its strategic location in central Lancashire. Chorley railway station sits on the West Coast Main Line, providing direct, frequent rail services to Manchester, Preston, Blackpool, and Lancaster. Connecting to the motorway network, the town is close to the M61, M6, and M65, making car journeys efficient for commuters and travellers alike.

The local bus network is well established, with regular services to surrounding towns such as Buckshaw Village, Adlington, and Leyland. Manchester Airport is within easy reach via the M61/M60, typically about 40–50 minutes by car, facilitating both domestic and international travel.

Commute times from Chorley to:

• Preston – 15 minutes by train / 25 minutes by car (A6)
• Manchester – 35 minutes by train / 40 minutes by car (M61)
• Liverpool – 55 minutes by train (via Preston) / 50 minutes by car (M6/M58)
• Bolton – 20 minutes by train / 25 minutes by car (M61)

Cyclists and walkers benefit from local paths and national cycle routes, including easy access to the surrounding countryside. Chorley’s public transport links, combined with road and airport proximity, make it a convenient location for those commuting or travelling further afield.

Chorley's education provision is highly regarded, with a broad selection of primary and secondary schools, as well as further education opportunities. Schools in Chorley consistently feature in parent searches, and the town is well served at all educational levels.

Primary Schools in Chorley:

- St Laurence CE Primary School – Known for a strong community ethos and rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2021).
- Gillibrand Primary School – A popular choice with families, this school was rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2022).
- Highfield Community Primary School – Celebrated for its nurturing environment, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2019).
- Devonshire Primary School – Well-respected locally, Ofsted ‘Good’ (2022).

Secondary Schools in Chorley:

- Parklands High School – This mixed comprehensive is one of the most searched-for secondary schools locally and was rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2023).
- Southlands High School – Offers a wide curriculum, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2019).
- Bishop Rawstorne Church of England Academy (nearby, in Croston) – Noted for strong exam results, ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted (2012).
- Holy Cross Catholic High School – Well-known locally, Ofsted ‘Good’ (2022).

Colleges and Sixth Forms:

- Runshaw College (Chorley Campus) – One of the most renowned colleges in Lancashire, offering A-levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships.
- Cardinal Newman College (in nearby Preston) is also accessible and highly sought after by Chorley students.

Universities:

- While Chorley does not host its own university, it is within commuting distance of major institutions: University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in Preston, University of Bolton, and University of Manchester. This makes Chorley a convenient base for students who want access to higher education while living in a smaller town setting.