Charnock Richard
About:
Charnock Richard is a small village located in Lancashire. It lies just to the south of the town of Chorley and is part of the borough of Chorley Council. The village has a long and interesting history, with roots dating back to the medieval period. The name “Charnock” is believed to derive from a personal name, while “Richard” was added to distinguish it from nearby Heath Charnock, and is thought to refer to a local landowner named Richard de Charnock.
Despite its modest size, Charnock Richard has played a notable role in regional history. It was traditionally an agricultural area, surrounded by farmland, and even today, it retains a distinctly rural character. Several older buildings still stand in the village, offering a glimpse into its historical past. Among these is Charnock Richard Hall, a Grade II listed building dating from the 17th century, reflecting the architectural heritage of the region.
The village is best known to many due to the Charnock Richard Services, one of the first motorway service stations to open in the UK. Situated on the M6 motorway, it opened in the early 1960s and has since become a familiar stop for travellers heading north and south across the country. This has brought a degree of recognition to the village name beyond the local area, even if the services are located slightly apart from the traditional village centre.
In terms of amenities, Charnock Richard maintains a close-knit community feel. It has a primary school, a church, and several local businesses that serve the needs of residents. The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunity for walking and enjoying the outdoors, and the village is close to attractions such as Yarrow Valley Country Park and Astley Hall in nearby Chorley.
Coastal
City & Culture
Countryside
