A Village Worth Visiting
Fifteen minutes-drive out of Preston and you are in the semi-rural village of Tarleton, writes Tracy Hargreaves
An easy journey to make by car or bus, Tarleton is worth a visit. Situated in the Lancashire moss lands, north east of Southport, and to the south west of Preston, the village is known for farming due to its rich soil quality. As I drive down the A59, past red brick terraces and whitewashed, timber-framed Tudor houses, the road soon becomes quieter and it’s not long before I arrive.
Whilst Tarleton is quite compact, compared to other villages, the shops provide all the amenities you need and more, with many of the stores occupied by enthusiastic, independent traders, offering something different, who know the local regulars by name, but are more than happy to welcome in visitors. Hair and beauty salons, optometrists, flower shops, butchers, DIY, dry cleaners, food stores and bakeries being just a few. You certainly don’t have to travel into Southport or Preston to get what you need and with the added advantage of free parking, it’s even more of an incentive to stay local.
In addition to the array of independent shops, there’s also a retail destination full of favourite well known brands. The Courtyard has recently been extended and offers customers everything from women’s and menswear, cards, gifts, bedding and homeware. Not only that, you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat in its coffee shop and restaurant.
If you are looking to mingle with the locals, then why not try The Vestry? A brand new micropub on Church Road which is already proving popular, with its craft ales and large selection of gin and wine.
The village has a great community feel to it. With its own public library, pubs and health centre as well as scout halls, football and cricket pitches. The pavilion, which is adjacent to these pitches, is organised and run by Tarleton Corinthians Football Club and Tarleton Cricket Club. Tarleton also has primary schools and Tarleton Academy in the village.
So, whether you live in the vicinity or are just driving through, Tarleton has a lot to offer. It’s a village worth visiting.
