About Carnforth

Carnforth is a small town in Lancashire, England, located within the LA5 postcode area. It lies along the West Coast Main Line, making it a notable stop for rail travellers. The town has a long history connected to the railway, with Carnforth railway station serving as a key junction. The station itself is well known for its role in the 1970s film *The Railway Children*, which was filmed on location in the area. Carnforth is situated near the border with Cumbria, and the surrounding landscape features rolling countryside typical of the region. The town has a mix of residential properties and local amenities, including shops and community facilities. Its proximity to the Lake District and the Pennines makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider area.

School Ratings in Carnforth

There are 28 schools in and around Carnforth. Bleasdale School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 7 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Carnforth

The average property price is £292K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £390K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Carnforth

Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Carnforth, with 2 recorded incidents in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Carnforth

Carnforth sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are generally above the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Carnforth

Broadband speeds in Carnforth are generally strong, with superfast and ultrafast options widely available. Mobile coverage across 4G and 5G networks is reliable throughout most of the area. For the latest speed predictions, visit Ofcom's broadband checker.

Property Prices 5,283 sales

Average Price £292K
£520 £2.73M
Detached £390K 1,629
Semi £258K 1,402
Terraced £204K 1,409
Flat £220K 500

Deprivation and Employment in Carnforth IMD 2025

Carnforth sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.

Overall Deprivation
7/10
Income
8/10
Employment
7/10
Education
7/10
Health
7/10
Housing
3/10
Living Environment
5/10
3,180 Children (0-15) 14%
12,579 Working Age 56%
8,842 Older (60+) 39%
Above Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 18.5% of children in income-deprived families
Above Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 8.1% of over-60s in income-deprived households
Data from English Indices of Deprivation 2025 · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Crime in Carnforth 7 crimes · January 2026

Low Crime Area

Carnforth records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Violence & sexual offences is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled town with a strong sense of community.

4 Violence & Sexual Offences
2 Anti-Social Behaviour
1 Burglary
Local Policing
Lancashire Carnforth & Millhead Visit force website →
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 6 stations

Carnforth Train Station 0.2 miles
Silverdale Train Station 3 miles
Bare Lane Train Station 4.4 miles
Arnside Train Station 5.5 miles
Morecambe Train Station 5.6 miles
Kents Bank Train Station 6.9 miles

Location

Local Government

District South Lakeland
County Cumbria
Ward Arnside & Milnthorpe
Constituency Westmorland and Lonsdale
Parish Arnside
Region North West

Notable & Famous People from Carnforth 1 people

Cecil Parkinson
Politician
British politician (1931–2016)