Preston is consistently voted as one of the best cities in the entire UK to retire to. With its expansive green space, relaxing activities, and slow pace of life, it’s easy to see why. But what if you’re just staying for a weekend or short break? Why is Preston a good destination? And what can you expect when visiting Preston as a retiree?
What makes Preston a great destination for retirees?
In an increasing number of surveys and studies, Preston has come out on top, or near the top, for retirees. This is often attributed to the lower cost of living, and its combination of green space, cafés, and amenities that are accessible.
What can you expect when visiting Preston as a retiree?
If you’re thinking about visiting Preston, you can expect:
- Plenty of history and culture
- Green spaces and outdoor leisure
- A compact city centre
- Dining and refreshments
History and culture in Preston
Walking through Preston’s streets, you can discover a mixture of Georgian, and Victorian influences that reflect its evolution as a significant industrial hub during the 19th century. There’s plenty of walking tours and even the Blue Plaque Trail, to help bring the people and the place to life.
If you have a keen interest in heritage, a visit to the Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library is highly recommended. Reopening on the 28th of September, it has just been renovated and promises to be well worth the visit. The neo-classical building itself is located on the city’s historic Flag Market.
Green spaces and outdoor leisure
Preston is often described as one of England’s greenest cities, and this is evident in its parks and open areas. A particular highlight is Avenham and Miller Parks, two adjacent Victorian parks that run along the River Ribble. Designed in the 1860s by landscape architect Edward Milner, they are the perfect place for a stroll, with riverside views, formal gardens, and open lawns. The parks also host seasonal events, but even on quiet days they are ideal for fresh air and a relaxed walk.
For retirees who enjoy birdwatching or simply being surrounded by nature, Brockholes Nature Reserve lies just outside the city. Managed by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, it features a unique floating visitor centre, walking trails, and wetlands that attract a variety of wildlife. The site is accessible and offers plenty of spaces to pause and take in the scenery.
A compact city centre
One of Preston’s advantages is its compact size. The city centre is relatively easy to navigate, with most attractions, shops, and cafes located within walking distance of one another. For retirees, this makes exploring more comfortable.
The city offers a mixture of independent retailers and well-known high street names. The covered market hall is a great place to browse local produce, crafts, and speciality foods.
Dining and refreshments in Preston
Eating out in Preston offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer a classic afternoon tea, a hearty pub lunch, or a more contemporary dining experience, we’re sure you’ll find something perfect.
Tea rooms and garden cafes in the surrounding countryside also make for a pleasant excursion. The Lancashire countryside is well known for its farm shops and local produce, so venturing a little beyond the city itself can be a rewarding part of the visit.
For luxury and comfort on your trip to Preston, choose the No.10 Preston Hotel. With a fantastic city centre location, our hotel boasts top quality apartments for a great night’s sleep, and a relaxing retreat, with great accessibility. Why not take a look at our rooms and availability today?