If you’re looking for a city with a thriving independent shopping scene, Preston is the perfect choice. In Preston you will find the perfect blend of historical and modern architecture, creating a unique local character, and this is emphasised through Preston’s wide range of independent shops. So where should you start when exploring Preston’s independent shopping scene? And which areas are not to be missed?
Preston is renowned for independent retailers and service providers
In Preston you can find a diverse range of independent shops that provide a wide range of products and services. From artisanal food, to handcrafted local goods and gifts, and from vintage items, to bespoke clothing and jewellery, the bustling city centre is sure to have something for everyone. And this isn’t just a fantastic place for shoppers, as this diverse range of independent retailers also continue the legacy of Preston’s heritage. In 1179, King Henry II awarded Preston with its first royal charter along with the right to have a Guild Merchant. The Guild was an organisation of traders, craftsmen and merchants, and since this time, Preston has been renowned for its shopping and goods.
So where should you visit when exploring Preston’s independent shopping scene?
Preston’s independent retailers are a diverse range, and if you’re visiting Preston for the first time, you might be wondering how you can be sure to find the shop you’re looking for. Well, we can take you on a written tour here at No.10 Preston, taking in some of the well renowned shopping streets, including:
- Winckley Square
- Cannon Street
- Miller Arcade
- Preston Markets
- Lune Street and Fox Street
- Winckley Square: Independent businesses in Preston
We’ll start our written tour in Winckley Square, which is just around the corner from our No.10 Preston Hotel. Winckley Square is a beautiful Georgian square with the peaceful Winckley Square gardens in the centre. This is a tranquil area of the city where you can find the Secret Garden Flower shop, a unique gift shop and delicious food. Why not stop for a bite to eat at authentic Korean restaurant Kimji, or Forum Bar and Kitchen, or pick up a gift at Green Pheasant Gifts?
Cannon street: A vibrant hub of unique shops
Moving away from the quiet and calm of Winckley Square, Cannon Street offers a lively mix of independent shops and cafes, making this a must visit street for anyone looking to enjoy Preston’s independent shopping scene. Here you can purchase handmade and local items, as well as vintage items and antiques, boutique and vintage clothing, and you can also stop for a bite to eat. Why not visit:
Retrogue Vintage Clothing- For high quality vintage clothing from around the world
Ocean- A leading luxury menswear retailer
Creations Gifts and Crafts- For items from talented local makers and artists as well as for unique gift ideas
European Fine Arts & Antiques- A unique fine arts and antiques shop that specialises in quality Victorian furniture, art, ceramics, clocks, glass and silver
Strictly Dancing- A one stop shop for all your dancing requirements
Storm Cat- For fans of dopamine, unique gifts, clothing, and accessories
If you’re starting to get peckish, why not visit one of the many delicious and independent places along Cannon Street, including:
The Tea House
Mitho Momo
Wings & Beer Co
The Thai Orchid Preston
Ravenous
Miller Arcade
Once you’ve finished along Cannon Street you can cut through the main shopping district to find more independent retailers on the opposite side of Fishergate. However, you really should stop off at Miller Arcade first. As a Victorian shopping centre, Miller arcade was built in 1899, modelled on the larger Burlington Arcade in London, and it remains a hub of well known and independent retailers and eateries today. You’ll find many grand period features in Miller Arcade including intricate tiling, vintage shop fronts and a striking glass ceiling, making this a must see for any visitor to Preston.
Preston Markets
Any trip to Preston would not be complete without a trip to the bustling Preston Markets. Preston is proud of its trading heritage and the markets have long been renowned for quality and atmosphere. Having recently been updated and renovated, the Markets are a fantastic hub for fresh and local produce, handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and antiques.
Lune Street and Fox Street
Returning back to No.10 Preston from Preston Markets can bring you through Lune Street or Fox Street, which for fans of independent retailers can be a delight. On Lune Street you will find Mr Jethwa Menswear, as well as the independent lingerie store Essentials, and the family run
McGowens Jewellers. If you’ve worked up a sweet tooth while shopping, you should also pay a visit to Indulge Desserts for a wide range of delicious dessert products. On Fox Street you will find DJM Jewellers and The Music Cellar, which is renowned for quality musical instruments and expertise.
Additional independent retailers
In just a few streets around the very centre of Preston, we’ve covered a wide variety of independent retailers, but that’s certainly not the total. Just off from the short route we’ve taken are plenty more unique and thriving independent shops to visit. These include:
Action Records- You can find Action Records on Church Street. This is an independent record shop and something of a haven for local music enthusiasts.
Harlequins- An independent game shop with a friendly and thriving community.
When you need a break from shopping, our luxury rooms will be waiting for you here at No.10 Preston Hotel. Why not take a look at our rooms and availability today?