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While idyllic Cotswolds villages, with their honey-stone cottages, or the spa-town grandeur of Bath, have long been popular with homebuyers, there's plenty to admire up north too - and Lancashire is a prime example of this.

From market towns nestled in the Ribble Valley to commuter-friendly hubs with fast rail links to Manchester, the county is quietly becoming one of the UK's most desirable places to settle down. And, according to data from Rightmove, buyers are flocking to quaint villages across Lancashire in search of character, community, and value.

The top 10 most in-demand spots include a mix of heritage towns, regeneration success stories, and leafy suburbs - all offering a slice of northern life with prices that still feel within reach.

Here are the most sought-after places to live in Lancashire, according to Rightmove.

10. Darwen Average property price: Overall average house prices in Darwen were £179,971 over the last year, according to Rightmove's data. The majority of properties sold in Darwen during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £127,143. Detached properties sold for an average of £304,191, with semi-detached properties fetching £191,716. Why it's popular: Surrounded by moorland and countryside, Darwen offers scenic views and a strong sense of local identity. The town is benefiting from regeneration funding and has good rail links to Manchester and Blackburn. 9. Adlington Average property price: Overall average house prices in Adlington were £220,272 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Adlington during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £178,546. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £213,468, with detached properties fetching £337,031. Why it's popular: This peaceful village has a mix of period homes and newer developments. Its proximity to Chorley and strong transport connections make it ideal for commuters seeking a quieter lifestyle. 8. Colne Average property price: House prices in Colne were an average of £163,683 overall over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Colne during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £128,788. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £204,619, with detached properties fetching £320,608. Why it's popular: A gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, Colne combines historic charm with affordability. It's known for its independent shops, music venues, and access to outdoor adventures which has seen it crowned as Lancashire's 'capital of cool'. 7. Penwortham Average property price: House prices in Penwortham were at an an overall average of £243,393 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Penwortham during the last year were semi-detached properties, selling for an average price of £228,937. Detached properties sold for an average of £339,769, with terraced properties fetching £166,582. Why it's popular: A leafy suburb of Preston with excellent schools, a thriving café culture, and riverside walks, Penwortha is particularly attractive to families and professionals. 6. Burnley Average property price: Overall average house prices in Burnley were £149,425 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Burnley during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £98,903. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £186,614, with detached properties fetching £288,142. Why it's popular: One of the UK's most affordable towns, Burnley is undergoing significant regeneration. It offers Victorian architecture, canal-side living, and a growing arts scene. 5. Buckshaw Village Average property price: Overall average house prices in Buckshaw Village were £205,941 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Buckshaw Village during the last year were flats, selling for an average price of £123,750. Terraced properties sold for an average of £196,266, with detached properties fetching £334,704. Why it's popular: A modern development built for convenience, with shops, schools, and a train station that connects directly to Manchester. Buckshaw is particularly popular with young professionals and families. 4. Blackburn Average property price: Overall average house prices in Blackburn were £176,888 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Blackburn during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £125,130. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £188,584, with detached properties fetching £283,464. Why it's popular: A large town with a diverse housing stock, from Victorian terraces to new builds, Blackburn is undergoing investment in infrastructure and education, making it increasingly attractive to buyers. 3. Chorley Average property price: House prices in Chorley were £204,225 on average overall over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Chorley during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £154,355. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £204,877, with detached properties fetching £336,588. Why it's popular: Chorley offers a balance of town amenities and countryside access. With strong transport links and good schools, it's a favourite among families and commuters. 2. Nelson Average property price: Overall average house prices in Nelson were £108,916 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Nelson during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £87,964. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £145,758, with detached properties fetching £217,714. Why it's popular: Extremely affordable, Nelson appeals to first-time buyers and investors. It has a strong community feel and sits close to Pendle Hill, offering great walking routes, many of which are featured on Lancs.Live.

1. Clitheroe Average property price: Overall average house prices in Clitheroe were £253,961 over the last year. The majority of properties sold in Clitheroe during the last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £181,611. Semi-detached properties sold for an average of £265,218, with detached properties fetching £407,236. Why it's popular: Topping the list, Clitheroe is a picturesque market town in the Ribble Valley. Known for its castle, artisan food scene, and access to the Forest of Bowland, perfect for those seeking charm and countryside.

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These 10 Lancashire villages have househunters flocking