Discover Preston | A Visitor's Introduction to Preston

Why is Preston Worth a Visit?

Preston is worth visiting for its deep sense of heritage, diverse attractions, and welcoming northern charm. It played a pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution, especially in textiles, and retains much of that character in its historic buildings, mills, and warehouses — many of which have been repurposed into modern cultural and business hubs.

But Preston isn’t all about the past. It’s a university city with a thriving student population, a growing food and drink scene, and a strong focus on regeneration. With an impressive number of parks, excellent museums, and vibrant markets, the city offers an enjoyable and well-rounded urban experience. Whether you're visiting for a day or making it your base for exploring Lancashire, Preston offers something for everyone.

Preston Highlights: Things to See and Do in Preston

Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library

Located in a striking Grade I-listed neoclassical building in the city centre, the Harris Museum is Preston’s cultural crown jewel. Currently undergoing a major refurbishment (due to reopen in 2025), it has long been home to impressive collections of art, textiles, archaeology, and social history. The surrounding Flag Market hosts events year-round, making this a lively and central hub of activity.

Avenham and Miller Parks

These two interconnected Victorian parks form a beautiful green corridor along the River Ribble. With landscaped gardens, riverside paths, and ornate features like the Japanese Garden and the Belvedere, they’re perfect for picnics, strolls, or a scenic run. Avenham Pavilion café offers refreshments with river views.

Preston Docks and Riversway

Once the largest inland dock in the UK, this revitalised area now features a marina, retail parks, restaurants, and walking paths along the Ribble. The Docks are ideal for a waterside wander or casual dining. The area also houses Ribble Steam Railway & Museum, where visitors can explore vintage trains and take a short ride on a heritage railway.

Preston Guild Wheel

This 21-mile circular walking and cycling route encircles the city, connecting parks, nature reserves, and riverside paths. It’s suitable for families, runners, and cyclists, offering an enjoyable way to see the green and suburban sides of Preston.

Lancashire Infantry Museum

Located at Fulwood Barracks, this is one of the largest regimental museums in the country, chronicling over 300 years of military history. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in British military heritage, with detailed exhibits, medals, and interactive displays.

Preston Markets

Preston’s covered Market Hall blends Victorian ironwork with modern design and is a lively place to grab lunch or shop for local produce, crafts, and unique gifts. The nearby Box Market offers a quirky shopping experience in upcycled shipping containers, housing independent traders and cafés.

Winckley Square

This elegant Georgian square is a peaceful, green oasis in the heart of the city. Once the residential quarter of Preston’s elite, it now features landscaped gardens and interpretive plaques telling stories from its past. A great place for a picnic or a quiet break from shopping.

St Walburge’s Church

This towering church boasts the tallest spire of any parish church in England. Built in the 19th century, it’s an impressive example of Gothic Revival architecture. The church often hosts open days and tours where visitors can climb the spire for panoramic views of Preston.

Preston North End and Deepdale Stadium

For football fans, a trip to Deepdale, home of Preston North End FC, is a must. One of the oldest professional football clubs in the world, it has a storied history — including being the original home of the National Football Museum. Matchdays are spirited affairs with dedicated local support.

Museum of Lancashire (Currently Closed for Renovation)

Although currently closed, this former courthouse on Stanley Street has long been a favourite with families and local history buffs. Plans are underway to reopen the museum as part of Preston’s cultural regeneration projects.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Preston is exceptionally well connected. It sits on the West Coast Main Line, with fast train services to London (2 hours), Manchester (40 minutes), Glasgow, and Edinburgh. The M6 motorway runs past the city, with easy access from the M55, M61, and M65. The city also has a central bus station — a Grade II-listed Brutalist structure — with services throughout Lancashire and beyond.

Parking

There are numerous car parks in the city centre, including at the Bus Station, Fishergate Shopping Centre, and Avenham. Parking is reasonably priced, with Park and Ride schemes available for easy access to the city centre. Many central streets also offer short-stay metered parking.

Dining

Preston has an increasingly impressive dining scene. From street food stalls at the market to independent cafés and fine dining, there’s something for all tastes. Try Plau for inventive modern cuisine in a converted 17th-century building, or The Ginger Bistro for upscale European dishes. For Indian and Bangladeshi food, East Z East and RK Dining are favourites. Coffee lovers should visit Ham and Jam or Rise.

Shopping

Fishergate is the main shopping street, offering a mix of national chains and independents. St George’s Shopping Centre houses high street favourites, while the Flag Market area and Friargate offer more unique boutiques, record stores, and vintage shops. Preston Market remains a standout for local produce and one-of-a-kind finds.

When to Visit

Preston is a year-round destination. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the city’s parks and outdoor events, while autumn is great for walking or cycling the Guild Wheel in cooler weather. Winter sees the city light up with Christmas markets, late-night shopping, and cultural events. Many major festivals and open-air concerts take place in summer, including in Winckley Square and Avenham Park.

Local Events

• Preston Guild (every 20 years, next in 2032): A historic civic celebration dating back to 1179, with parades, concerts, and citywide festivities.

• Lancashire Encounter Festival (biennial): A vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community with performances, installations, and food.

• Christmas Lights Switch-On and Market: A festive favourite with entertainment, crafts, and food stalls throughout November and December.

• Ribble Steam Railway Events: Seasonal events including Santa Specials and heritage weekends at the Docks.

Exploring Beyond Preston

Preston is a brilliant base for discovering wider Lancashire. The Ribble Valley offers stunning countryside and great walks, while the Forest of Bowland AONB lies just 30 minutes away. Blackpool’s seaside attractions are under an hour’s drive, and the Lake District is only an hour north by train or car. Lytham St. Annes, with its genteel promenade and golf courses, also makes a great day trip.