Location, Location, Location: Wigan
Wigan is a town and metropolitan borough in Greater Manchester's northern corner. We may of course be biased, but we think it’s just an excellent place to live! You don’t just have to take our word for it either, below we’re going to tell you all about living and working in Wigan – then you can make your own mind up!
Wigan’s Transport Links
Conveniently located between the M6, M58, and M61 motorways, Wigan is perfect for commuters and those with families across the country. It’s also on the West Coast train line – which connects London and other major UK cities in a matter of hours – for if you don’t drive.
Wigan’s not too far away from Manchester and Liverpool too, if you fancy living on the fringes of the city, without the cons of inflated house prices, noisy roads, and lack of green space.
Wigan’s Rich History
Would you love living in an area that’s both traditional and historic? Then this may be the place for you. Wigan was actually founded as a borough way back in 1246, after King Henry III of England granted it a Charter, which means it was allowed unrestricted trading and weekly markets hosted by the lord of the manner. Wigan was one of four boroughs created by Royal Charter in Lancashire at the end of the Middle Ages.
The industrial revolution then ushered in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth. Wigan has a dynamic and rich heritage, which even dates back to being invaded by the Romans, making it ideal for history aficionados! If you’re thinking of moving to Wigan, why not consider taking a day trip over and heading on a tour first to explore the area?
Day To Day Life In Wigan
Wigan is the ideal spot for children too. With a variety of primary and secondary schools that have been rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted, the area is a great place to raise a family.
The town also has a great sense of community, the ‘love where you live’ movement by Wigan council helps the borough thrive. Campaigns like ‘green heart’ and ‘our town’ bring together residents to help build a better community for all.
If you’re moving and looking for work, there are around 12,000 businesses in the borough of Wigan, with over 80% of them classified as SMEs. Manufacturing and logistics are important sectors, but the digital, creative, health, environmental, and professional sectors are also growing. Or, with the close links to both Manchester and Liverpool that we mentioned before, commuting is easy too!
Sport In Wigan
Time to support a new team (or choose a second?) if you move to Wigan we’ve no doubt you’ll find yourself getting behind the charismatic and inspiring Wigan FC. Or, if scrums and mauls are more your thing, then the Wigan Warriors are the popular local rugby team.
Wigan’s also the perfect place to join a new sporting club. The Wigan Sporting Society hosts a range of clubs to join for all ages and levels. Their main sports include cricket, hockey, squash, and football – perfect for the kids (or yourself).
Shop ‘Til You Drop
If you’re looking for some inspiration, then the Grand Arcade in Wigan is a must-visit.
Located in the town centre, the shopping centre consists of 39 retail stores selling all kinds of things including health and beauty, jewellery, fashion, and footwear. The shopping centre also has nice pitstops for a coffee break, or a spot of lunch. When moving home, local amenities are really important, luckily you won’t be strapped for choice in Wigan.
Exploring Wigan
Finally, we’re sure you want to know about the beauty sports where you can spend time with the family, walk the dogs or even head out for a jog to within Wigan.
Haigh Woodland Park is one of the top adventure playgrounds in North West England. Climbing frames, swings, rope bridges, and a zip wire can all be found in the 250-acre acer woodland. If you enjoy golfing, the park features an 18-hole course as well as adventure and crazy golf. The Haigh Hall has a miniature rail track, which passes through the woodland and gardens, is one way to view the park. With a walled garden, picnic spots, and an arboretum too, the park provides plenty of open space to enjoy! Did someone say semi-rural living?!
Fairy Glen is a small (but very beautiful) recreational area nestled on the side of Parbold Hill above the rural community of Appley Bridge. The valley, with its miniature waterfalls and rock sides, defines the character of the site, which is interlaced with historic broadleaved woods. Picnic facilities can be found here, so visitors can easily spend the day getting back to nature.
Living In Wigan
We recognise the many wonderful advantages of living in Wigan, which is why our brand-new development Eston View is establishing its roots there. Poised to launch later this year, you can keep updated on our website.