Local area guide

Living in Carnforth

Thinking about moving to Carnforth? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools and transport connections are like - and of course the most important thing of all: how much houses cost to buy.

Your guide to moving to Carnforth

Why Carnforth is a good place to live

Located on the edge of the Lake District with easy access to Lancaster, Morecambe, Carnforth is a quiet haven with historic charm. Those who love the outdoors will find moving to Carnforth delightful as the town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is adjacent to the Lancaster Canal. Carnforth has an array of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, perfect for anyone who enjoys local shopping and dining. The town is also dog-friendly with numerous scenic walks and dog grooming options. It retains a sense of nostalgia from its past as a bustling railway town, appealing to residents who appreciate its rich heritage.

What's Carnforth famous for?

Carnforth is famous for its iconic railway station, the filming location for David Lean's classic 1945 romance film 'Brief Encounter'. The railway station now houses the Carnforth Station Visitor Centre and Heritage Centre where fans of the film and history enthusiasts can relive past times. Carnforth is also home to West Coast Railways, recognized for their historic steam locomotives for rail tours.

Things to do in Carnforth

For a bit of nostalgia, visiting the Carnforth Railway Station and Heritage Centre is a must. The centre offers a wealth of history, exhibits and even has a quaint on-site vintage mini cinema. Outdoor lovers can explore the many walking trails, enjoy the panoramic views of Morecambe Bay or visit nearby nature reserves like RSPB Leighton Moss and Warton Crag. Leighton Hall Estate, a place steeped in history, is also worth a visit. If you're into shopping, Carnforth boasts of wonderful independent stores including Madison's Butchery, famous for its selection of sausages.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.

Average asking prices in Carnforth today

We update our average asking prices every day using data from millions of properties for sale.

Terraced

Avg. asking price

£207,500

22 properties for sale

Detached

Avg. asking price

£312,500

54 properties for sale

Semi-detached

Avg. asking price

£300,000

32 properties for sale

Flats

Avg. asking price

£155,000

24 properties for sale

Properties currently for sale in Carnforth

Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.

Transport in Carnforth

Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Carnforth.

Local connections

Carnforth
National Rail
0.1 miles / 0.2 km
Silverdale
National Rail
3.2 miles / 5.1 km
Bare Lane
National Rail
4.5 miles / 7.2 km
Arnside
National Rail
5.6 miles / 9.0 km
Morecambe
National Rail
5.7 miles / 9.2 km
Lancaster
National Rail
5.7 miles / 9.2 km

Schools in Carnforth

Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Carnforth.

Education in Carnforth

Carnforth Community Primary School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2024)
Carnforth Christ Church, Church of England, Voluntary Aided Primary School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School, Carnforth
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Carnforth High School
Ages: 11 - 16 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2021)
Warton Archbishop Hutton's VC Primary School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2019)
Over Kellet Wilson's Endowed Church of England Primary School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)

Local pubs in Carnforth

In partnership with
useyourlocal
  • Snug Micropub

    Carnforth, Lancashire, LA5

    The North West's original micropub, opened August 2012 offering cask ales, wines, gins, ciders and soft drinks.

  • Taps on the Green

    Carnforth, Lancashire, LA5

    Welcome to the newly refurbished Taps on the Green.

  • Eagles Head

    Over Kellet, Carnforth, LA6

    The Eagles Head is a welcoming country pub situated in the village of Over Kellet just 2 minutes from junction 35 of the M6 motorway and 20 minutes from the heart of The Lake District.