About Preston
Situated on the banks of the River Ribble, Preston is Lancashire’s administrative and commercial centre. Once a thriving industrial town, it has evolved into a modern city with a strong economy, excellent transport connections, and a welcoming community.
Preston benefits from direct access to the M6, M61, and M65 motorways, as well as frequent rail services connecting to Manchester, Liverpool, Blackpool, and London. It’s also close to key business hubs such as Chorley, Blackburn, and Leyland, making it a strategic base for work and travel across the North West.
With ongoing investment in infrastructure, business parks, and city centre regeneration, Preston continues to grow as a destination for commerce, culture, and leisure.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Preston invites you to explore its unique charm and character. Here are some of the top things to do in Preston:
* Visit the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, where you can explore the history, art and culture of the city and its surroundings. The museum has a variety of exhibitions, events and activities for all ages and interests.
* Enjoy a walk or a bike ride along the Guild Wheel, a 21-mile circular route that connects the city's green spaces, heritage sites and riverside paths. You can also stop by the Brockholes Nature Reserve, a wildlife haven with a floating visitor centre.
* Experience the Preston Markets, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, antiques and more. The markets are housed in a stunning Victorian canopy and a modern glass box, creating a unique shopping atmosphere.
* Catch a show at the Preston Guild Hall, a multi-purpose venue that hosts live music, comedy, theatre, dance and more. The Guild Hall also has a cinema, a bowling alley and a variety of bars and restaurants.
* Explore Avenham and Miller Parks, two beautiful Victorian parks that are located next to each other along the River Ribble. You can admire the fountains, statues, gardens and bridges, or join one of the many events and festivals that take place throughout the year.
Local Attractions
TeamSport Go Karting
If you're a thrill seeker then look no further than TeamSport Go Karting, conveniently located a short drive from Preston city centre, at Walton Summit. The indoor tracks make the perfect place for some heart-racing action that'll have you coming back for more.
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Bowland Wild Boar Park
Bowland Wild Boar Park, situated in the beautiful rural surroundings just outside of Preston, makes a super family day out with plenty of things to see and do. On top of wild boar to spot, you can also discover an exciting mix of animals and wildlife within the park's picturesque surroundings.
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British Commercial Vehicle Museum
Located in Leyland, on a site formerly part of the Leyland Motor factory, the British Commercial Vehicle Museum displays antiquarian buses, early fire engines and other historical and commercial vehicles produced by the British manufacturing industry.
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Animate
Boasting experiences that everyone will love, Animate is a place of fun and community right in the heart of Preston. Plenty of food and drink, hours of exciting entertainment, and just a great place to hang out, Animate has it all.
Read MoreOwl & Bird of Prey Sactuary – One of the UK’s biggest event arenas with upto 21,000 – More Info
Wacky World Preston – Preston's first inflatable park boasts a massive 20,000 sqf space filled with inflatables – More Info
Bowland Wild Boar Park – Family Fun Animal Farm Park in the Ribble Valley – More Info
TeamSport E-Karting – The best in indoor karting with epic multi-level circuits – More Info
Wanderwoods – Harry Potter themes activity park with Crazy Golf, Roller Skating, Soft Play, and more – More Info
Harris Museum & Art Gallery – A treasure trove of fantastic art and fascinating objects – More Info
Samlesbury Hall – Built in 1325 Samlesbury Hall is steeped in fascinating history – More Info
Lancashire Infantry Museum – The largest regimental military heritage collection in the North of England – More Info
Avenham & Miller Parks – Grade II* parks, a 5 minute walk from the city centre – More Info
Guild Hall & Charter Theatre – Theatre, concert hall and event space in the centre of Preston – More Info
Preston Playhouse Theatre – The Playhouse has been in the business of amateur dramatics since 1949 – More Info
Brockholes Nature Reserve – The iconic floating visitor village or on the 250 acre nature reserve – More Info
Preston Docks – Watch boats at Riversway, Preston's Dock and Marina and have a walk around, taking in the history, steam trains, waterfront living, shops, eateries, pubs and cinema – More Info
British Commercial Vehicle Museum – Everything from the bygone days of horse drawn carriages through to the state of the art power trucks – More Info
Beacon Fell Country Park – Beautiful country park in the Forest of Bowland – More Info
St Walburge's Church – A stunning church full of history and a lavish interior, with the added bonus of a scenic Spire Climb – More Info
Preston Guild Wheel – The Preston Guild Wheel is a 21 mile "Greenway" that encircles the city of Preston – More Info
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum – This heritage attraction connects the story of the north’s industrial railways – More Info
Fishergate Shopping Centre – a bustling retail destination that caters to the diverse shopping needs of locals and visitors alike – More Info
Beer Brothers Brewery – Preston's biggest "micro brewery", producing a wide range of excellent beers – More Info
LEVEL Preston – A great selection of activities, ten pin bowling, laser tag and crazy golf, and more – More Info
Preston Markets – Offering fantastic choice with the Indoor and Outdoor Markets and the ever popular Car Boot and Flea Market – More Info
Preston Indoor Climbing Centre – Offering independent climbing, junior after-school and weekends – More Info
Penwortham Golf Club – Enjoy its undulating, tree-lined fairways and to experience the fantastic golfing dividend – More Info
Alpaca Walking Experience – Meet and greet the beautiful alpacas or take them for a private walk on this working sheep farm – More Info
Featured Accommodation
Where to Eat & Drink
Preston’s food and drink scene offers a great selection of local pubs, cafés, and international restaurants.
Popular spots include:
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Totto’s Italian – A much-loved restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes.
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We Don’t Give A Fork – Gourmet burgers in a relaxed setting.
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Fino Tapas – Contemporary Spanish dining with a lively atmosphere.
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Plau Gin & Beer House – A stylish venue housed in a restored 18th-century building.
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The Silk Route – A top-rated Indian and fusion restaurant.
For coffee and casual dining, Coco’s Soul Food and The Larder are local favourites.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Preston’s nightlife is friendly and varied, with something for everyone — from laid-back pubs to lively bars and live music venues.
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Winckley Street – A hotspot for restaurants and cocktail bars.
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The Adelphi – A classic student pub with great food and atmosphere.
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The Ferret – A popular live music venue hosting local and touring acts.
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The Continental – A riverside venue offering craft beer, food, and events.
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Level Preston – A large entertainment complex with bowling, laser tag, and bars.
For theatre and film lovers, The Charter Theatre and The Preston Guild Hall host regular performances and cultural events.
Business & Corporate Connections
Preston is a thriving centre for manufacturing, logistics, energy, and education, with major employers including BAE Systems, The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), and several national distribution companies.
Its central location makes it a key link between the Midlands, North West, and Scotland, and a growing hotspot for contractors and professionals working on regional infrastructure projects.
Guestz serviced apartments in Preston are ideal for corporate guests and contractors seeking high-quality accommodation with the space, privacy, and amenities to make long-term stays more comfortable and productive.
