If you’re considering a move to the beautiful South Lakeland area, Ulverston is one of the most charming towns you can choose. Known for its cobbled streets, independent shops, festivals and warm community feel, this historic market town combines Lake District scenery with coastal views, creating a unique lifestyle that appeals to families, professionals and retirees alike. Here’s our bite-size guide to why Ulverston is such a great place to live.
Where is Ulverston?
Ulverston sits in South Cumbria, just a few miles north of Morecambe Bay and close to the southern edge of the Lake District National Park. Its location is one of its biggest attractions, as residents enjoy easy access to popular spots such as Coniston Water, Windermere, Newby Bridge, and the Furness Peninsula.
The town itself has around 12,000 residents, offering a lovely balance of bustling market-town life and peaceful surroundings. Ulverston is famous for its festival culture, including the Lantern Festival, Dickensian Festival and Retro Rendezvous; events that draw visitors from across the UK and give the town a year-round buzz.
Transport links
Ulverston Railway Station sits on the Cumbria Coast Line, offering direct services to Lancaster, Carlisle, Preston and Manchester Piccadilly, making the town an appealing option for those fed up with big city life but who need to occasionally travel into the office or visit family.
We’re seeing increasing numbers of Manchester residents seeking a move north, and for anybody who mostly works from home, this means Ulverston offers a peaceful home base without giving up access to major employment hubs.
Schools
Ulverston has a strong reputation for its education options, making it particularly attractive for families.
Popular local primary schools include Church Walk CofE Primary School, St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School, and Sir John Barrow School and Croftlands Infant & Junior Schools.
For secondary education, Ulverston Victoria High School (UVHS) is a well thought of secondary school known for good academic results, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities and its careful focus on children with SEND requirements.
Amenities
One of the reasons people love living in Ulverston is the impressive selection of shops, services and local businesses.
The town centre is packed with independent boutiques, artisan food shops and traditional bakeries and has an indoor market open five days a week, with a deli, local bakers, greengrocer, bookstall, sweets, clothing, shoes, crafts and haberdashery. On Thursdays and Saturdays an outdoor market offers hot food, fresh fruit and veg, freshly baked bread, local crafts and more, in a seasonally changing selection.
There is, of course, also a Booths supermarket, a Morrisons, an Aldi and an M&S Food Hall, plus a range of pharmacies, opticians and GP surgeries.
Food & drink
Ulverston offers a thriving food scene with cosy cafés, craft pubs, microbreweries, bistros and restaurants serving everything from traditional Cumbrian dishes to modern dining. Check out the fish and chips at the Farmers or nibble on tapas at L’al Churrasco – this is a small town where all foodie tastes can be met.
Leisure time
If you love being outdoors — or simply enjoy exploring culture and heritage — Ulverston is an outstanding place to live.
Ulverston is home to the start of the Cumbria Way, a long-distance walking route finishing in Carlisle popular with serious hikers – and many fundraisers. You’re also in close proximity to Coniston Water, Windermere, and the Furness Fells, satisfying your outdoor needs whether these be gentle or more demanding, and its proximity to many coastal walks make it a dream for those who rejoice in the sea.
If you’re a fan of classic comedy, make a visit to the Laurel & Hardy Museum, celebrating the work of Stan Laurel, who was born in Ulverston, and his side-kick Oliver Hardy.
Ulverston is also famous in the region for its many festivals, from the beautiful Ulverston Lantern Festival, which lights up the night sky with a parade through the town, to the International Music Festival, Apple Day, Ulverston Pride and the Dickensian Festival.
If you’re looking for an escape, but one that doesn’t strip away too many of the urban conveniences and comforts you’re used to, you should definitely consider Ulverston. Visit our friends at Hackney & Leigh to learn more.
Ulverston Office
Sales: 01229 582891
Eddie – Friday 28th November 2025. (I’m working with Simon Leigh at Hackney & Leigh Estate Agents).
