About Darwen

Darwen is a town located in Lancashire, England, within the BB3 postcode area. It is situated approximately 12 miles north of Manchester and is part of the wider Blackburn with Darwen borough. The town has a mix of residential areas, local shops, and community facilities. Darwen is known for its proximity to the West Pennine Moors, which offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling. The town features several parks and green spaces, providing areas for leisure and recreation. Darwen's local economy has traditionally been linked to the textile industry, although it has diversified over the years. The town centre includes a selection of eateries and retail outlets, catering to the needs of residents and visitors alike. Overall, Darwen presents a blend of urban and rural elements, making it a practical location for those looking to explore Lancashire.

School Ratings in Darwen

There are 124 schools in and around Darwen. Turncroft Nursery School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 14 schools hold a Good rating.

House Prices in Darwen

The average property price is £148K, with terraced houses making up the majority of the housing stock at around £103K.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Darwen

Recorded crime levels are broadly in line with the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Darwen, with 48 recorded incidents in January 2026.

Deprivation and Employment in Darwen

Darwen 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 broadly in line with the national average.

Broadband and Mobile Internet in Darwen

Broadband speeds in Darwen 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 5,854 sales

Average Price £148K
£100 £8.51M
Detached £254K 1,000
Semi £164K 1,110
Terraced £103K 3,293
Flat £88K 158

Deprivation and Employment in Darwen IMD 2025

Darwen 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
4/10
Income
5/10
Employment
5/10
Education
5/10
Health
4/10
Housing
5/10
Living Environment
4/10
8,437 Children (0-15) 19%
28,567 Working Age 63%
11,147 Older (60+) 25%
Average Child Poverty (IDACI) 35.6% of children in income-deprived families
Average Older Person Poverty (IDAOPI) 15.8% 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 Darwen 270 crimes · January 2026

Average Crime Area

Reported crime levels in Darwen sit broadly in line with national averages for a town of this size. Violence & sexual offences accounts for the largest share of recorded offences. The profile is typical of a well-populated area with a mix of residential and commercial activity.

122 Violence & Sexual Offences
48 Anti-Social Behaviour
23 Vehicle Crime
19 Criminal Damage & Arson
13 Other Theft
11 Other Crime
10 Drugs
8 Burglary
7 Public Order
6 Shoplifting
3 Weapons
Local Policing
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

Darwen Train Station 0.2 miles
Mill Hill (Lancs) Train Station 3.2 miles
Cherry Tree Train Station 3.4 miles
Blackburn Train Station 3.4 miles
Entwistle Train Station 3.5 miles
Pleasington Train Station 4 miles

Location

Local Government

District Blackburn with Darwen
Ward Darwen West
Constituency Rossendale and Darwen
Parish Darwen
Region North West

Notable & Famous People from Darwen 5 people

Carlyle Atkinson
Swimmer
British swimmer (1892–1968)
Dick Burton
Golfer
professional golfer (1907-1974)
Frederick C. Silvester
Choir director
British organist (1901–1966)
John Cryer
Politician
British politician (born 1964)
Justin Astley
Snooker player
British snooker player