Lose yourself in the timeless charm and cosy feel of a village with community at its heart.
Lovely Lymm. A place the locals are quite rightly proud of, there is heritage and independent shops in abundance. Add in bars, restaurants and quaint cafes and there is something to satisfy the whims of the most discerning diner - in fact head to page 146 where you can learn more about neighbourhood restaurant La Boheme and try some of their recipes.
This delightful little village, nestled in some of Cheshire's loveliest countryside, has much going for it beyond where to shop and eat, too. The feather in its cap is undoubtedly its community. People flow and chat down the main high street much like the Bridgewater Canal that runs through the village centre - a honeypot for boating, fishing and walking enthusiasts. Many of the area's picturesque buildings date back to the 17th century and its pretty postcode is coveted by those searching for the charm of the British countryside with the benefits of modern living and a close commute to nearby cities.
While Lymm's quaint exterior may suggest a quiet life, don't be fooled - this is no sleepy village. It's a destination buzzing with markets, events and festivals - think Dickensian Days, comedy nights, foodie feasts and the hugely popular Easter Monday Duck Race. Go on, have an explore.
Independent's Day
The people of Lymm play a huge role in keeping the high street thriving. One of the best local stories is Hopkinsons, a 22-year-old former family-owned butchers bought out by a Lymm local to, excuse the pun, save its bacon. Next door you'll find Karl Welsh & Sons Floral Design, a quirky and gorgeous florists. There is Sextons Bakery for homemade pastries and traybakes, or head to the recently refurbished The Terrace for homemade breads, cakes and speciality coffees. The ultra-chic The Wine Kitchen is so popular the owner was approached to take over the restaurant next door, rebranding to Eighteen The Cross, a must-visit neighbourhood bistro with Mediterranean vibes. Xross Interiors, bang-on-trend items for the home, is essential to stop by. Add a bespoke artwork or a striking sculpture from CLK Art and your domestic design woes are over.
For that perfect party? You'll want the recently relocated Ruby & Harry, owned by Lymm local, Jennifer Grimes.
Heritage and History
One of Lymm's enticing qualities is its handfuls of history. Its charming past and unique character make for a fascinating wander come rain or shine. Lymm Heritage Trail, a 3.5-mile self-guided route based on the north/south valley and running through the centre of the village is a good starting point. It's perfect for an evening ramble and will give you a sweet look-in through the nooks and crannies of Lymm's history.
Don't miss Lymm Dam, a recent winner of a Green Flag Award. Visitors praise its year-round kaleidoscope of flowers, abundance of nature and The Bongs, its semi-ancient woodland. In the heart of the village is Lymm Cross, a perfect place to watch the world go by and easily one of this corner of Cheshire's most recognisable landmarks. Don't forget Spud Wood, one of the newer additions in Lymm. It was planted in the late 1990s on a former potato field and is the perfect spot for a spring stroll or summer picnic.
Bag a Property
Property is king in Lymm. Whether it's an impressive country estate with superior facilities and gardens, stylish, contemporary family homes or one and two-bedroom homes, most budgets are well catered for. With that bustling village centre, as well as a thriving local sports scene, good feeder schools for Manchester's prestigious private schools and lots of green space, it's a tempting prospect for many homeowners.
Gascoigne Halman branch manager Bobby Shahlavi says: 'Lymm is a place that is seriously connected. It's well placed for the motorway network, has great airport access and there are outstanding schools. 'But it's the old-world charm that captures people's hearts. The Bridgewater Canal cuts directly through the village, and the Sandstone Cross with its genuine stocks are an Instagrammer's dream. 'For more comprehensive shopping needs, there are the larger commercial centres like Altrincham, Warrington, Manchester, Liverpool and Chester that are readily accessible. Lymm is a town with it all.'
Why I moved here
Nicole & Reuben Williams
I was having a baby and wanted to live somewhere where he could grow up in a nice village with a community. My husband and I also work not too far away so it is an easier commute from where we were before.
Why I've stayed here
Anne Young
We have been here 16 years after we moved from Manchester wanting something semi-rural for when we retired. We absolutely love Lymm; it is such a great community and there are so many lovely places to walk. Our house is on the Bridgewater Canal, which is a bonus, too.
