Skelmersdale is a town located in the West Lancashire district of Lancashire, England. It is situated on the River Tawd and is positioned approximately 6 miles (10 km) west of Wigan, 13 miles (21 km) north-east of Liverpool, and 15 miles (24 km) south-west of Preston.
The town is known locally by the nickname "Skem." As of 2006, Skelmersdale had a recorded population of 38,813 residents.