Things To Do
in Preston
Preston is a historic market town in Lancashire, located along the River Ribble. It offers a compact city centre with Victorian and Georgian architecture, and a strong railway heritage. The city is home to the University of Central Lancashire, giving it a lively student vibe.
From riverside parks to cultural venues, Preston blends heritage with modern development.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in the heart of Preston, savoring traditional English fare. After breakfast, explore the stunning architecture of the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, marveling at its Victorian design and extensive art collection. Stroll through the nearby Avenham Park, where you can enjoy the serene landscapes and beautiful gardens.
For lunch, head to the bustling Market Hall, where you can sample a variety of local delicacies and fresh produce. Afterward, visit the iconic Preston Guild Hall, where you can learn about the city's history and its famous guild traditions. Take some time to wander through the nearby Fishergate shopping area for unique shops and boutiques.
As evening falls, dine at a charming local restaurant that offers a mix of British and international cuisine, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Preston Playhouse, where local talent showcases their skills in a variety of genres. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the River Ribble, soaking in the peaceful views.
Begin with a hearty breakfast at a cozy café before heading to the Harris Museum for an in-depth look at Preston's local history. Afterward, visit the Museum of Lancashire, where you can explore interactive exhibits that bring the region's past to life. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful surrounding gardens before continuing your cultural journey.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby pub, where you can taste traditional ales and hearty meals. Spend your afternoon at the Preston Sports Arena, engaging in some recreational activities or watching local sports events. If time permits, visit the nearby Ribble Steam Railway to experience a ride on a vintage steam locomotive.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a riverside restaurant with stunning views of the waterway. Post-dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife scene at local bars and pubs, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy live music. End the night with a stroll along the waterfront, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $60-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historical market town with strong rail links
- Compact, walkable city centre with plenty to see in a short visit
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be changeable with rain possible at any time
Places to Visit in Preston
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking Gothic church with England's tallest parish church spire, offering a dramatic skyline shot and architectural details.
Riverside greens with promenades, weeping willows, and reflections—ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Georgian square framed by pale terraces and trees, great for portraits and architectural photography.
Art Deco shopping arcade with arched glass ceilings and vintage interiors.
Food in Preston
Preston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting stew of meat and potatoes simmered slowly; look for traditional pub versions in the city centre.
Must-Try!
A Lancashire staple featuring sausage served with creamy mashed potatoes and onion gravy.
A sticky, ginger-flavoured sponge cake enjoyed with tea at local tea rooms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively indoor market in the city centre offering fresh produce, meat, bakery items, and occasional street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queuing is the norm; be patient and polite in public spaces and shops.
Order at the bar in pubs; tipping is not obligatory, and loud behavior is best avoided late at night.
A simple hello or good morning goes a long way; handshakes are common when meeting new people.
Safety
Tipping in Preston
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; around 10-12% in larger restaurants if service charge isn’t included, otherwise a small tip for good service is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; keep some cash for markets or small stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Longer days and generally mild to warm temperatures; markets and outdoor dining flourish, with occasional showers.
Crisp air and amber foliage provide atmospheric walks and photography opportunities.
Shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures; festive events and quiet city strolls prevail.
Milder weather and blooming streets make it pleasant for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Preston at Night
Hiking in Preston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible greenery just outside Preston with moderate trails.
Popular nearby hill for hiking and scenic views; varied routes.
Extensive moorland and countryside ideal for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Preston by plane.
Major international hub about an hour's drive or rail connection from Preston, with frequent domestic and international flights.
Regional airport offering frequent flights to Europe and domestic routes; roughly 45-60 minutes away by car or rail.
Limited commercial flights; check current status if you plan to fly in or out.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large student population due to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan); youthful energy and a growing cultural scene.
Traditional Lancashire families with a mix of working-class and middle-income communities.
Growing cultural diversity bringing varied foods and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region has a strong football culture with local clubs and a vibrant youth scene.
Occasional rugby match culture at local clubs and school teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Preston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for markets with fresh produce and cafes offering veggie mains or swaps.