The small picturesque village of Newburgh is without a doubt a hidden gem.
The small village is situated in West Lancashire and is bounded by the Leeds and Liverpool canal. Surrounded by vast green fields and beautiful forestry, Newburgh residents enjoy a quiet and scenic country life only a short 35-minute drive to central Liverpool.
Tucked away, it would be easy to bypass the village or not know oit even existed. But, once you visit once you’ll be sure to want to go again as its charm is undeniable.
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Its delightful open spaces and canalside walks are certainly attractive features for keen walkers or those looking to spend some time in the country. There is also a strong sense of history in the village, with its old-fashioned homes and buildings, including Newburgh’s Christ Church and Post office, which has recently been converted to include an endearing little cafe.
Mia Betts and her family moved to Newburgh six years ago and decided to buy the old post office which had become run-down and was a shell of its true potential. After a lot of hard work and dedication, the family has now brought new life to the post office with its newly added gift shop and cafe.
Post Coffee shop officially opened four years ago in 2018, and has since become a hit with the locals. Mia said: “It's become a village hub. Locals say that they come in here and meet neighbours they would have otherwise never met.”
While some young people may not enjoy the country life, Mia said: “I love it. It’s in the middle of nowhere for a young person. But it’s nice here and the people are the loveliest. It’s my home and I wouldn’t change it.”
Bella Anderson, who also works at Post Coffee and has lived in the area her whole life, said: “I really love it here. All the people are really sweet and they'll talk to you like a person.”
The coffee shop’s biggest fan without a doubt is 90-year-old Dot who has lived in Newburgh for 52 years since retiring as an NHS worker in Liverpool. She enjoys coming in to see Mia and her family every day, and said it was the perfect way for her to get out of the house and get a slice of her favourite chocolate orange cake at the same time.
Dot moved to Newburgh with her late husband in retirement and said: “I love it here. It’s absolutely beautiful.”
Along with the Post Coffee, another focal point of the community is The Red Lion pub where locals love to gather and people travel specifically just to experience the warm feel of the village.
Nicola, who has been the assistant manager of The Red Lion in Newburgh for the past seven years, said she adores her job and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. She added: “It’s a really supportive village. Everyone knows everyone. When people sit alone at the pub, others will go and talk to them.
“We spend the majority of our time here, but it's nice because every day is different. I never dread going into work. It’s like a big extended family here and people genuinely care.”
While rural village life may not be for everyone, those who live in Newburgh make it sound perfectly divine.
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