Scales on the map
Location in CumbriaScales sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Scales
Scales is a small village located in Cumbria, England, within the postcode area of LA12. It is situated near the southern tip of Lake Windermere, which is the largest lake in England. The village offers a peaceful atmosphere, with a few residential homes and local amenities. The surrounding countryside is characterised by rolling hills and farmland, making it a suitable spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities like walking and cycling.
The village is conveniently located for visitors wishing to explore the nearby attractions of the Lake District National Park. Scales is also close to the town of Ulverston, where one can find a wider range of shops, restaurants, and cultural activities. The area is well-connected by road, making it accessible for day trips to other parts of Cumbria and beyond.
School Ratings in Scales
Families in Scales have access to 42 local schools. Sir John Barrow School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 6 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Scales
Homes sell for an average of £289K locally. Most of the housing is made up of terraced houses, averaging £192K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Scales
Crime in the area is lower than the national average. Criminal damage & arson is the leading concern across Scales, with 8 incidents recorded in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Scales
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Scales around the national average for deprivation. Working-age employment in the area is well above the national average. Residents in the area generally earn above the national average.
Healthcare in Scales
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Scales, the nearest being Dalton Surgery (2.9 miles away).
Local Data for Scales
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Property Prices 3,440 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the LA12 postcode area.
Household Income in Scales ONS 2023
The average total household income in Scales is approximately £46,188 a year before tax, 16% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £35,604. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £35,604.
Businesses in Scales ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,065 active businesses based in Scales, around 51 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 12 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Scales IMD 2025
Deprivation levels in Scales are around the national average based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment is accessible for most residents and household incomes reflect the broader national picture. The area maintains a steady balance between affordability and quality of life.
Crime in Scales 79 crimes · May 2026
Crime levels in Scales are lower than the England and Wales average. While violence & sexual offences is the most frequently recorded category, the overall picture is one of a settled and secure town where serious incidents remain uncommon.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Scales
Of the 9,617 households in and around Scales, 76% are owned, 9% are socially rented and 15% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Scales.