This is the North West.

The North West is one of the most diverse and vibrant regions in the UK. The countryside spans moorland and mountains, the cities are famous for historical attractions and innovative design. The people are warm, open, and proud of where they live. Wherever you settle in the region, you'll be near somewhere special; from the spectacular scenery of the Lake District, to the buzzing cultural scenes of Manchester and Liverpool, to the thrills of Blackpool.

Housing associations in the North West offer an equally diverse range of opportunities. The region includes some of the UK's most deprived areas and some of the most affluent. Whether you want the challenge of a rural community or an inner city estate, you'll find it here. You just need to decide which will fulfil you more.

Here's the low-down.

Housing

The average house price in the North West is £152,079.

Council tax ranges greatly. The more affluent areas such as Cheshire sit above the national average. However, with plenty of up and coming districts such as the BBC's new Manchester home: Salford, there are some great property investment opportunities and cheaper council tax bills to be had.

Schools

Find out about schools in the North West by visiting www.ofsted.gov.uk Of course, the big cities are home to some of the UK's most famous Universities. Budding scientists amongst you will know that the atom was first split at Manchester University.

City Life

Manchester and Liverpool have all the facilities you would expect of major European cities. Large-scale regeneration has transformed both into world-class destinations. And 2008 sees Liverpool become European Capital of Culture. Smaller cities outside Greater Manchester and Merseyside include Lancaster and Chester.

Countryside

The Lake District is the region's most popular rural destination. To enjoy beautiful scenery without the crowds, try the coastline surrounding Formby (near Liverpool), the Forest of Bowland, and the West Pennine Moors.

Transport

The major cities are very well connected by transport networks. London to Manchester takes approximately 2 hours 20 minutes by train. Manchester has an international airport, and Liverpool's John Lennon Airport offers domestic and European flights. Ferries to Ireland also depart from Liverpool.

Religion

All major religions are well-represented here. Communities in Greater Manchester practice a particularly diverse range of faiths.

10 things to do in the North West

Scare yourself silly on Europe's highest rollercoaster at
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Get a different perspective on the world at The Tate modern art gallery in Liverpool
Relax in the beautiful gardens and rolling parkland of Tatton Park in Knutsford
Learn about the effects of war on ordinary lives at the Imperial War Museum North in Salford
Go on a magical mystery tour of the swinging sixties at the Beatles Story Ltd, Liverpool
Come under the spell of the infamous Lancashire Witches at Lancaster Castle
Gaze at the stars at the world-famous Jodrell Bank Space Observatory Visitor Centre
Put on your green wellies and meet some prize-winning bullocks at The Cheshire County Show
Walk in the footsteps of the Roman Legions and see Britannia from Hadrian's Wall
Travel back through time and visit a world heritage site at Liverpool's historic waterfront