Preston

What does Preston offer?

Discover the charm of Preston, a vibrant city nestled within the heart of Lancashire, UK. Boasting a rich history dating back to Roman times, Preston effortlessly combines the old with the new, offering visitors an eclectic mix of cultural attractions, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving shopping scene. As the administrative centre of Lancashire, this bustling hub has something for everyone, from fascinating museums and galleries to delightful parks and gardens. Delve into Preston's storied past by exploring its well-preserved landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Harris Museum & Art Gallery, the iconic Avenham and Miller Parks, and the captivating Ribble Steam Railway. For those seeking a more contemporary experience, indulge in retail therapy at the modern shopping centres, such as St. George's, Fishergate and the Miller Arcade. Experience the rich culinary scene as you savour local delicacies, or enjoy a pint at one of the city's traditional pubs. With a host of events, festivals and friendly locals, Preston is the ideal destination for a memorable Lancashire experience.

Top attractions in Preston

1. Avenham and Miller Parks: These beautiful Victorian parks, located side by side along the River Ribble, offer stunning scenery, picturesque gardens, and a variety of recreational activities. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, participate in outdoor sports or simply relax in the peaceful green surroundings.

2. Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library: This Grade I listed building houses an impressive collection of fine art, textiles, ceramics, and glassware. Explore the local history of Preston and immerse yourself in the engaging exhibitions, workshops, and events held throughout the year.

3. Preston Guild Hall: As the city's premier entertainment venue, Preston Guild Hall hosts a wide range of concerts, theatre performances, and events. With two performance spaces, various dining options, and a bustling entertainment scene, there's always something happening at the Guild Hall.

4. Ribble Steam Railway: Step back in time and experience the golden age of steam travel at this fascinating railway museum. The Ribble Steam Railway showcases a collection of steam engines, vintage carriages, and memorabilia, offering a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.

5. Brockholes Nature Reserve: This award-winning nature reserve features a floating visitor village, walking trails, and bird hides, providing a unique experience for nature lovers. Explore the diverse habitats, spot rare wildlife, and learn about conservation efforts at Brockholes.

Best areas to live in Preston

1. Fulwood: Known for its spacious properties and green spaces, Fulwood is a highly sought-after residential area in Preston. With easy access to local amenities and excellent schools, it's ideal for families and professionals alike.

2. Penwortham: A popular suburb south of the River Ribble, Penwortham offers a mix of modern and period homes. The area boasts great transport links, highly-rated schools, and a friendly community atmosphere.

3. Ashton-on-Ribble: Situated to the west of the city centre, Ashton-on-Ribble is a diverse neighbourhood, offering a range of housing options. With easy access to local shops and parks, it's an attractive option for both families and young professionals.

4. Broughton: A quaint village located north of Preston, Broughton is known for its picturesque countryside and traditional charm. Offering a peaceful environment, it's perfect for those seeking a rural retreat while remaining close to the city.

5. Cottam: An up-and-coming residential area, Cottam offers modern housing developments and excellent transport links to the city centre. With its range of local amenities, it's an increasingly popular choice for families and young professionals.

6. Hutton: Set in the heart of the countryside, Hutton is a desirable spot for those who enjoy a quieter pace of life. The village offers a range of property types, from cosy cottages to spacious family homes.

7. Longridge: A bustling market town, Longridge is an ideal location for those who value a strong sense of community. The town offers a range of local shops, restaurants, and leisure activities, as well as excellent schools and transport links.

8. Avenham and Winckley Square: With a mix of historic and modern properties, Avenham and Winckley Square are highly sought-after areas in the city centre. These picturesque neighbourhoods are perfect for those looking for a stylish urban living experience.

9. Lea: A peaceful suburb of Preston, Lea offers a range of housing options, from bungalows to large detached properties. With its strong community feel, great schools, and local amenities, it's an excellent choice for families.

10. Grimsargh: A charming village located east of the city, Grimsargh is known for its beautiful countryside and friendly atmosphere. With a variety of housing options, it's an appealing choice for those seeking a picturesque and tranquil setting.

Best things about living in Preston

1. Vibrant Cultural Scene: Preston boasts an array of cultural attractions, including the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library, which houses fascinating collections of fine art, textiles, and local history. The city also hosts numerous arts festivals and events throughout the year, such as the annual Lancashire Encounter, showcasing the region's diverse artistic talents.

2. Beautiful Green Spaces: The city is home to several picturesque parks, including the award-winning Avenham and Miller Parks, situated along the banks of the River Ribble. These parks offer stunning riverside walks, ornamental gardens, and plenty of areas for picnics and relaxation. Additionally, the Forest of Bowland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is easily accessible for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

3. Excellent Transport Links: Preston's strategic location in the heart of Lancashire makes it an excellent hub for travel. With excellent road, rail, and bus networks, residents can easily commute to nearby cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Blackpool. The city also offers convenient access to the M6 motorway, connecting Preston to major cities across the UK.

4. Bustling Food and Drink Scene: Foodies will be delighted by the variety of options available in Preston. The city has a thriving cafe culture, with independent coffee shops offering delicious treats and artisanal beverages. In addition, the diverse range of restaurants, bars, and pubs ensures that there's something to suit all tastes, from traditional Lancashire dishes to international cuisine.

5. High-Quality Education: Preston is home to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), one of the largest and most well-respected universities in the UK. With a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses on offer, UCLan attracts students from all over the world. The city also boasts several high-performing primary and secondary schools, making Preston an ideal location for families.

Drawbacks to living in Preston

1. Unpredictable Weather: Preston experiences a typical British climate with frequent rain, overcast days, and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions. Be prepared for damp and chilly winters, and cool, occasionally sunny summers that might not fulfil your desire for sun-soaked days.

2. Limited Public Transport Options: While Preston does have a train station and a bus network, the public transport options can be limited and sometimes unreliable. If you plan to travel around the region or commute to other major cities, you may need to rely on a personal vehicle for greater flexibility and convenience.

3. Limited Cultural and Entertainment Offerings: Although Preston boasts some local attractions, such as the Harris Museum and Avenham Park, its cultural and entertainment scene may not be as vibrant and diverse as larger cities like Manchester or Liverpool. This might leave residents seeking more variety in their leisure activities.

4. Lack of Diverse Job Opportunities: Preston has a strong focus on industries such as aerospace and manufacturing. However, its job market might not be as diverse or as abundant as those in major metropolitan areas. This could make it challenging for those looking for work in specific sectors or seeking career advancement opportunities.

5. Urban Sprawl and Traffic Congestion: As Preston continues to grow and develop, the city is experiencing an increase in urban sprawl, leading to traffic congestion during peak hours. This can result in longer commutes and increased travel times, especially for those who live outside the city centre or rely on public transport.

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