The UK's coast is dotted with , and in some of these houses are relatively affordable, certainly compared to some other areas of the country. In Bootle, just outside , the average asking price for a is £115,000 and £325,000 for a detached property, according to Zoopla. For a semi-detached home, sellers are requesting around £190,000. The site adds that living in Bootle, which has been listed as one of Britain's most deprived areas, means "having access to great transport connections to nearby Liverpool, making commuting easy while enjoying the peace of a quieter neighbourhood".

Experts say that the town has a "rich history with its Victorian heritage visible in its architecture, providing a unique mix of period properties and modern homes". They add: "Affordability is another key highlight of Bootle, with its houses priced well below the national average. This affordability, combined with the calm ambience of the area, makes it a charming place for anyone considering moving to Bootle."

Rightmove data suggests an overall average cost for houses in Bootle at £150,028.

The majority of properties sold in the town last year were terraced properties, selling for an average price of £124,872.

Semi-detached properties, menawhile, sold for an average of £173,601, with detached properties fetching £242,382.

Rightmove says house prices in the area have increased, adding that, overall, the historical sold prices in Bootle over the last year were 5% up on the previous year and 12% up on the 2022 peak of £134,511.

, and residents said that people locally are struggling.

Carol Clague, 70, said: "So many people, [so many] kids are suffering. It's like going back to the 1950s."

The Betfred worker's daughter, Emma, 45, who is currently unemployed and a recipient of Universal Credit, said the community has to "do more for each other these days".

Locals feel powerless, the former cleaner added, and she is worried about the welfare cuts that have since been announced by the government.