When people think about things to do in the evening, especially while travelling to a new city, the first suggestion often revolves around pubs or nightlife. But what if you’re not much of a drinker? Or you’re visiting for work, travelling with family, or just fancy something a bit different after dark? Well, the good news is that Preston has plenty to offer in the evening hours. While it has been awarded the purple flag for nightlife, not everything on offer involves a pint or prosecco. So how can you enjoy a Preston evening without alcohol? And what are some of the best ways to enjoy a dry night out in Preston?
So how can you enjoy a Preston evening without alcohol?
Preston is bursting with options for evening fun, without alcohol. Why not consider:
- Movies and cinemas
- Indoor fun
- Live performances
- Evening walks
Evening screenings and cosy cinemas
A trip to the cinema can be the perfect low-key evening out, especially if you want to wind down after a busy day of exploring. Odeon Luxe Preston, located on Port Way near the docks, offers plush reclining seats, a quiet atmosphere and late showings most nights of the week. It’s ideal if you’re after comfort and calm.
For something closer to the city centre, the newly opened Animate Preston boasts a diverse range of screenings, including all the latest releases, and is open well into the evening. While you’re there, you’ll also find plenty of places to eat too.
You can also keep an eye out for pop-up outdoor screenings in the warmer months, sometimes hosted on the Flag Market or by local community groups. They’re a brilliant way to experience film in an unusual setting, and are typically family, and budget-friendly too.
Indoor fun with games and escape rooms
If you’re after something hands-on and a little different, Preston’s indoor activities won’t disappoint. Escape Reality Preston, located in the city centre, is home to themed escape rooms that cater to both seasoned puzzle solvers and curious first-timers. It’s a great group activity, perfect for friends, families, or team bonding.
Board games or card games more your thing? You’ll sometimes find meet-ups at places like The Adelphi, where locals gather for casual gaming evenings. They’re often free or very low-cost, and you don’t need to be a regular to join in. It’s a fun and social way to spend a few hours, without relying on drink as the main draw. For card games, check out what’s on at Harlequin’s or AJ’s.
For more fun and adrenaline, Level Preston offers indoor crazy golf, arcade games, darts, karaoke rooms and more, all under one roof. It’s lively, colourful and especially fun on weekend evenings.
Live performances
Preston’s smaller performance venues offer a welcoming, down-to-earth night out. Preston Playhouse, run by local amateur groups, stages regular plays, comedies, and musical theatre in an intimate 200-seat auditorium. The shows are often affordable, and you’ll find everything from family pantos to more niche drama.
If you’re into spoken word or storytelling, it’s worth checking the listings at venues like The Continental, which occasionally hosts open-mic nights and community-led performances. The vibe is relaxed and inclusive, which can be a refreshing alternative to more commercial nightlife.
Early evening walks and riverside views
Some of Preston’s most scenic spots come to life in the early evening. A stroll through Avenham and Miller Parks offers a peaceful escape without needing to leave the city centre. Here you can enjoy some fresh air, walk along tree-lined paths, and watch the moon rise over the River Ribble
For a more urban evening walk, head to Preston Docks. The modern lighting, calm water and benches dotted along the marina create a surprisingly tranquil night-time spot. You’ll find plenty of space to breathe and watch the city slowly wind down.
If your walk takes you to Moor Park, you might stumble upon something particularly noteworthy: the Jeremiah Horrocks Observatory. Here, public stargazing evenings are held on the third Thursday of every month. These free events give you the chance to peer through telescopes, learn about the night sky, and chat with local astronomers from the Preston and District Astronomical Society.
Enjoy your evenings in Preston
As you can tell, you don’t need to drink to make the most of your evenings in Preston. From stargazing and films, to games, and gentle riverside walks, there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re visiting solo, with family or in a group.
So if you’re planning a trip to Preston, and you’re wondering what to do at night, beyond the usual drinking and dancing, we’re sure that you will be surprised by how much there is on offer. Here at the No.10 Preston Hotel, we offer luxury and boutique accommodation for solo travellers, couples, families and groups, so you can relax and unwind in peace after an evening of discovery. Why not take a look at what we can offer today?