I was watching 1883 last week, the Netflix drama about the families heading west in wagon trains across the wilds of what is now the USA. They were prepared to risk everything in the hope of finding a better life for themselves and their children. There seems to be a similar thing happening now, with people from Manchester and surrounds looking north, not west, in search of a better way of living – cleaner, greener and less stressful.
There’s no need to brave angry natives, menacing wildlife and gun-totin’ bandits, however. The natives are friendly, the wildlife is terribly British (the last wild English wolf lived (and died) in Cumbria) and the bandits have long since been banned. Today, you can find your perfect permanent escape in the Lake District and Cumbria by speaking to the right people – namely my friends at Hackney Leigh, the estate agency with 10 offices across the region, who can help you find your perfect home.
And to start you off, here’s our complete guide for new residents of Grange-over-Sands, a charming gateway to the Lakes with seaside-vibes.
Where is Grange-over-Sands
Grange-over-Sands is a delightful little town, with just over 4,000 permanent residents, on the edge of Morecambe Bay, often nicknamed the Lakeland Riviera, thanks to its mild micro-climate and scenic coastal setting. It offers a rare mix of peaceful, small-town living with convenient rail and road links—making it an appealing place for families, commuters, and those seeking a slower pace without giving up connectivity.
It was originally nothing much more than a grain store for Cartmel Priory and remained little more than a scattering of barns and fisherman’s cottages until the arrival of the railway, in 1857, bringing with it an influx of wealthy families from Manchester and Leeds, who were seeking cleaner air and an escape from city life. Oh, wait… Grand houses and hotels sprang up, and Grange-over-Sands has maintained this feel of a slower pace of life, packed with Edwardian charm and surrounded by glorious countryside.
Transport links
One of Grange’s big advantages is its direct line to Manchester. Rail services from Grange‑over‑Sands to Manchester Piccadilly average around 1 hour 35 minutes, and the fastest trains can get you there in under an hour and a half.
Schools
For primary education Grange CE Primary School has a great reputation. There is no secondary school, unsurprisingly for such a small town, but the school has strong links with nearby Cartmel Priory CofE School, which gathers from most of the towns and villages in the area.
Amenities
Grange-over-Sands has good everyday shopping options, including a Tesco Express and a Co-op. For the big shop, you will need to head to Carnforth, where you will find a Tesco Superstore and an Aldi, plus loads of independent small retailers. Head the other way, to Ulverston, and there’s a Booths and an M&S Food Hall. Fancy.
Leisure time
If you’re heading north, it’s likely that enjoyment of the great outdoors is high on your list of whys and living in Grange-over-Sands means you can really embrace outdoor living. The mile-long Promenade along Morecambe Bay, built for those wealthy Edwardian industrialists is level, accessible, and ideal for strolls, pushing a pram, or enjoying the coastal views. Nearby attractions include Holker Hall & Gardens, just a short drive away, with formal gardens, woodland walks and a café. The town also supports several local sports: tennis, multi-use games areas (MUGA), skatepark and outdoor gym-equipment at the south end of the prom and, excitingly, at Grange-over-Sands you will find one of only four remaining ‘Lido’ outdoor swimming pools in the UK. Built in 1932, remaining open for community use until 1994, when changes in legislation and rising costs of repairs made it untenable for the local authority. However… A huge fundraising initiative and support from Westmoreland & Furness Council means a £6.8m budget is bringing the Lido back to life, with a hoped-for opening in early 2026!
And, of course, Grange-over-Sands is right on the edge of the glorious Morecambe Bay and just 30 minutes (15 miles) from Windermere and all the Lakes have to offer.
Want to know more about opportunities for moving to Cumbria? Visit our friends at hackney-leigh.co.uk
Nearby villages to consider
Flookburgh
Just four miles from Grange-over-Sands is the ancient fishing village of Flookburgh. The village may be small, but there’s a lot going on! The annual Charter Fair in June celebrates a Royal Charter granted in 1278 by Edward I, allowing residents to fish for cockles and shrimps in Morecambe Bay. Cark Airfield, the home of the North West Parachute Centre is nearby and also hosts the annual Steam Gathering, a huge gathering of vintage vehicles. The village itself offers a pub, a chemist, village store, post office, a primary school, garden centre and doctors surgery.
Allithwaite
Situated between Grange-over-Sands and Flookburgh, Allithwaite has pubs, a church and a thriving primary school.
Cartmel
Very close to Grange-over-Sands, just two miles in fact, is Cartmel, famous for its gourmet opportunities, with Michelin-starred restaurant L’Enclume (from revered chef Simon Rogan) sitting nicely alongside traditional pubs offering fine food and drink. Rogan also owns the neighborhood restaurant Rogan & Co, the chef’s table and development kitchen Aulis and has recently opened Our Shop, for all your delicatessen needs… Cartmel is of course, also the home of the famous Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, a must-have hunk of sweet deliciousness rumoured to be enjoyed by Madonna, no less.
The village also has tea rooms, cafes, specialist and gift shops, a convenience store, a primary school and the previously mentioned secondary school.
Contact the Grange-Over-Sands Office on: 015395 32301
Eddie – Friday 24th October 2026. ( I’m working with Simon Leigh at Hackey & Leigh Estate Agents).
