Why Some Areas Never
Go Out Of Style
With an abundance of schools, shops, eateries and leafy suburban streets, Fulwood has always been a desirable and attractive place to live. Photography: Paul Currie
Situated just a couple of miles north of Preston city centre, the area has a distinct personality and a wealth of opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Home to some of the finest Victorian buildings in Lancashire, including Fulwood Barracks, Fulwood Union Workhouse and the Harris Orphanage; the area dates back to the 12th century and has a proud tradition of protecting and preserving its culture and heritage.
Whilst many residents have lived in the area for generations, Fulwood has undergone significant regeneration and growth in recent years. New families have been encouraged to move into the area thanks to housing developments across the district, including the D’Urton Manor on Eastway, Fulwood Green on Garstang Road and Wesley Chase on Lightfoot Lane. Providing affordable luxury to single occupants, couples and families, Fulwood’s expansion is unique, with the area retaining a welcoming vibe and strong community feel – long being described as one of Lancashire’s friendliest districts.
With Preston on its doorstep; opportunities for entertainment, shopping and dining have never been in short supply. However, the area itself also has many local amenities; including shops, primary and high schools, pubs, libraries, a gym, the Booths supermarket complex and a range of beautiful parks.
Independent businesses are also flourishing. In terms of pampering, Fulwood residents and visitors can enjoy services at Be Beautiful – offering hair, nail, tanning and beauty treatments. For cosmetic, restorative and general dentistry, Sharoe Green Dental Practice offers a wealth of treatments in a friendly, relaxing environment.
As one of Preston’s most desirable locations, it’s no surprise that Fulwood residents take pride in their home and surroundings. James and Rose Bespoke Upholstery offer unique contemporary and classic sofas, whilst Lee Kelly Windows provide a professional and high-quality windows, doors and conservatories. Gas Style is the place to go for state-of-the-art central heating systems.
For those who fancy a tipple, Fulwood has a range of vibrant and independent local pubs, including the Plungington Hotel – a cosy and eclectic hub, boasting Preston’s largest beer garden and a delicious array of craft and cask ales.
Healthcare in Fulwood is also second to none. The Royal Preston Hospital serves 1.5 million people across Lancashire and South Cumbria. Recently, Bespoke Healthcare – one of the leading providers of independent healthcare – also announced that it will shortly be building Preston’s newest hospital development – the Greater Lancashire Hospital – by Spring 2019 at a cost of more than £3m.
As well as amenities aplenty, transport links in Fulwood are also exceptional. Just minutes away from the M6 motorway, both Manchester and Liverpool are less than an hour’s drive. Lancaster and the Lake District can also be reached in under an hour, with Blackpool on the M55, a mere 20-minute drive.
In terms of employment opportunities, Fulwood is at the centre of everything Lancashire and the wider district has to offer. BAE Systems’ employees are attracted to the area because of its convenient location between both the Warton and Samlesbury sites, and healthcare professionals also reside close by, given the close proximity to the Royal Preston Hospital. Many Fulwood residents use the area as a base for commuting to other areas of the North West and further afield, with Preston train station a handy couple of miles away for direct services to Scotland, London and the Midlands.
For eco-friendly bus users, Fulwood is served by several routes operated by Preston Bus and Stagecoach in Lancaster. These services include routes (Preston Bus) 19, 19A, 22, 23, 86 and the 88A/88C Orbit service and (Stagecoach) 4, 4A, 4C and 40/41 services. There are cycle paths from Fulwood through Lancaster to Carnforth.
Fulwood boasts 12 primary schools, four secondary schools, including Archbishop Temple – the highest performing non-fee paying school in Lancashire. The area is also home to the main campus of Preston’s College, now the seventh best nationally for students achieving their chosen course qualifications.
Local resident Christine, who has lived in the area for over 30 years said: “I love living in Fulwood. I brought my children up here and can’t ever see myself living anywhere else. It’s comfortable, safe, and friendly and I love that most people take pride in the area and look after their surroundings. We have a real sense of community and everyone looks out for each other, which is wonderful.”
With more and more people enjoying and appreciating what the area has to offer, it is no surprise the area was highlighted by The Guardian in 2017 a noteworthy place to buy. Always on the up, it seems the sun is far from setting on this suburban gem.
