Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or using Preston as a base to explore Lancashire, there are plenty of things to see and do to add to your itinerary. From parks and museums to historic landmarks and lively markets, Preston offers a wonderful mix of culture, heritage, and green spaces that make it well worth exploring. So, what are the best things to see in Preston?
Visit the Harris Museum
One of Preston’s most recognisable landmarks is the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library. Standing proudly in the heart of the city, this impressive Grade I listed building has been welcoming visitors for generations. Inside, you’ll discover a fascinating collection of art, local history, and exhibitions that showcase Preston’s rich heritage. Whether you’re interested in fine art, archaeology, or learning more about Lancashire’s past, there’s plenty to explore.
Explore Avenham and Miller Parks
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the busy city centre, Avenham and Miller Parks are among Preston’s most beautiful green spaces. Situated alongside the River Ribble, these Victorian parks are perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll find landscaped gardens, colourful flower displays, winding pathways, and open spaces where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The parks are particularly beautiful during the spring and summer months and are a favourite spot for both visitors and locals. During the summer, you’ll also find plenty of events hosted here.
Discover Preston Markets
No visit to Preston is complete without spending some time at Preston Markets. The modern indoor market is home to a fantastic mix of independent traders selling fresh produce, baked goods, clothing, gifts, and everyday essentials. It’s also a great place to stop for lunch, with a variety of food stalls serving everything from traditional favourites to international cuisine.
Walk along the River Ribble
The River Ribble provides some of Preston’s most scenic walking routes and is well worth including in your visit. Whether you choose a short riverside stroll or combine your walk with one of the city’s parks, you’ll enjoy peaceful views and a welcome break from the bustle of the city centre. It’s an ideal place to slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and experience another side of Preston.
Follow the Guild Wheel
If you enjoy exploring on foot or by bike, the Guild Wheel is one of Preston’s standout attractions. This circular trail stretches for over 20 miles around the city, connecting parks, countryside, riverside paths, and local landmarks. While many visitors complete smaller sections, the route offers plenty of opportunities to discover parts of Preston that you might otherwise miss.
Visit Winckley Square
One of Preston’s hidden gems is Winckley Square, a peaceful Georgian square just a short walk from the city centre. Surrounded by elegant period buildings and centred around attractive gardens, it’s the perfect place to add to your day of sightseeing. The square offers a quieter side of Preston and provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the city’s architectural heritage. It’s also one of the most picturesque spots in the city, with plenty of cafes and small local businesses in the area too.
Enjoy the city’s food and drink scene
Preston has a thriving food and drink scene, with independent cafés, traditional pubs, stylish restaurants, and welcoming bars located throughout the city centre. Whether you’re stopping for a coffee between attractions or enjoying dinner after a day of exploring, you’ll find plenty of places to relax and sample local hospitality.
Explore beyond the city centre
One of Preston’s biggest advantages is its location. The city sits within easy reach of some of Lancashire’s most beautiful countryside, making it an excellent base for exploring attractions beyond the city itself. The Forest of Bowland, Ribble Valley, and the Lancashire coast are all within easy driving distance, allowing you to combine city sightseeing with stunning rural landscapes. This makes Preston an ideal destination for a longer stay.
Staying in a city centre hotel in Preston, like the No.10 Preston, allows you to maximise your time and experience more of what the city, and the surrounding Lancashire area, has to offer. We offer luxury and boutique accommodation for solo travellers, couples, families and groups, so you can relax and unwind in peace. Why not take a look at what we can offer today?