Ormskirk branding in the shape of a heart

Welcome to Ormskirk – the beating heart of rural West Lancashire. This is a town with warm welcomes, heritage and folklore, as well as small, independent shops to explore.

Ormskirk is a bustling town with pedestrianised streets and narrow lanes, and is renowned for its Gingerbread and Historic Market.  The town is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves; visitors can amble along in quaint village streets, or meander through West Lancashire’s beautiful countryside to spot local wildlife. You can discover traditional English cafés, award-winning restaurants, farm shops and canal side pubs as you explore the local area. Escape the fast pace of the cities and enjoy the ‘real Lancashire’.

Ormskirk and the wider West Lancashire area can be reached easily by road or rail. For those coming from further afield, we are just a short journey away from Liverpool’s port as well as other North West airports.

Attractions & Experiences

across West Lancashire

Attractions & Experiences

Discover beautiful birds, visit local farms and learn about West Lancashire’s rich history.

West Lancashire has something for everyone.

Walking & Cycling Routes

explore further afield

Walking & Cycling Routes

West Lancashire has an abundance of walks steeped in history, and cycle routes spread across the borough.

Inspiration

ideas & itineraries

Inspiration

Sometimes you might not be sure where to go or what to do.

Find inspiration and itineraries to take advantage of; perhaps there will be one for you!

sHOPPING SMALL

If you like unique, independent shops, then you’ll love what Ormskirk and the surrounding villages have to offer. Ormskirk proudly has over 65% independent retailers lining its quaint streets.

Ormskirk Market

A trader on Ormskirk Market cuts a slice of cheese

Ormskirk Market is renowned for being one of the UK’s oldest and most traditional outdoor markets. Granted a Royal Charter in 1286 by King Edward I, this popular and well-loved market has been held in Ormskirk ever since.

You can visit the Market every Thursday and Saturday. The pedestrianised streets around Ormskirk’s famous Clock Tower hold approximately 100 stalls and attract a variety of shoppers each market day.

what’s on

Ormskirk and West Lancashire offer a range of events for everyone to enjoy.

Take a look below at some of the upcoming events happening in the West Lancashire area.

from The Barn at Moor Hall

fine food

It’s not surprising that with such fabulous produce on our doorstep, West Lancashire is home to a wealth of delicious restaurants. You can explore them in Ormskirk town centre and discover even more throughout our wonderful, rural borough.

See some of our restaurants below:
Briars Hall Hotel2025-05-01T13:46:14+01:00
Exterior of Briars Hall Hotel 18th Century Manor House

Briars Hall Hotel

The Cork2025-05-01T14:09:17+01:00
Inside photo of the bar and seating area in The Cork

The Cork

Spiritz Social2025-05-01T14:13:47+01:00
The ivy framed exterior of The Jazz House Restaurant in Burscough Street

Spiritz Social

Oyez, Oyez, Oyez!

“Hear ye, Hear ye, Hear ye!” – shouted by Town Criers before making their announcements.

Ormskirk’s Town Crier

In England, Town Criers have been around since the Medieval era, and were key figures as they communicated important information with the people of the town. Many people could not read or write, so verbal announcements were their only means of communication.

Proclamations, local bylaws, market days and adverts were all proclaimed. Town criers were protected by law as they sometimes announced bad news.

Ormskirk still has a Town Crier to this day (although his proclamations are now of a joyful nature)! As well as attending events, Ormskirk’s Town Crier Don reads The Lancashire Proclamation for Lancashire Day on 27th November each year.

What people had to say about Ormskirk

One of my favourite things about Ormskirk is the night time economy; there are many various independent eateries, from continental cuisine to classic pub grub so there is something to suit everyone. The funky bars are a buzz too, a perfect place for a few drinks and socialising with family and friends.

Portia, from Ormskirk

Ormskirk is a great place to live, work and socialise.
I particularly love all the independent shops and the great choice of restaurants and wine bars, there’s so many to choose from.
The people here are exceptionally friendly, I’m very proud to now call Ormskirk my home.

Pat, from Liverpool

Ormskirk is a great place to visit for a day out. The town has a real Lancashire feel about it with its traditional market, fantastic buildings and the colourful town crier to greet you. With all the lovely independent shops and fab restaurants it really is one of my favourite places to come for a day trip.

Dom, from Crosby

I had not been to Ormskirk for quite a while… the stalls have returned with some new additions to create a lovely afternoon visit with quite a selection of variety of products and a bakery stall that is worth a visit on its own to purchase some wonderful items especially the pies.

klon1950, off Tripadvisor

Lovely people here and a great mix of stalls….. cakes, veg, flowers & plants, clothes, bags….you name it a good ole’ mix.
Definitely worth a visit – even the kids enjoyed it!

Paco, off Tripadvisor

Great place to spend a couple of hours – good bargains to be had – friendly stall holders nice atmosphere – food market is especially good – Lovely town!

Neil, off Tripadvisor