If you’re visiting Preston and want to add something active or sports related to your trip, you’re in luck. Preston has a proud history in a variety of sports and activities, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re here to cheer from the stands, grab a pint while watching the big match, or join in yourself, there’s a lot going on beyond the usual tourist trail. So what are the different ways to enjoy sport in Preston? And what should you consider when planning your trip?
So what are the different ways to enjoy sport in Preston?
There are a wide range of different ways to enjoy sport in Preston, including:
- Watching sport
- Getting active
- Water sports and outdoor adventures
Watching sport in Preston
Preston offers a whole host of different and engaging ways to watch sport in Preston. These include:
- Visiting Deepdale Stadium- Let’s start with a local legend. Deepdale is home to Preston North End, which is one of the oldest football clubs in the world and a founding member of the Football League. It has significant heritage for the city and the sport alike, but what keeps people coming back is the atmosphere on match days. Whether you’ve always been a fan or you’re a curious visitor, grabbing a ticket to a home game is a brilliant way to soak up some proper local passion.
- Visiting Lightfoot Green- If you’re a rugby fan, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to see the Preston Grasshoppers at Lightfoot Green. Like Preston North End, this rugby team is one of the oldest rugby clubs in the country and still buzzing with life. You’re guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a community feel.
- Visiting Preston Cricket Club- Preston Cricket Club is based just off South Meadow Lane and offers chances to watch some fabulous cricketers in action.
- Sports bars and match day spots- If you’re not up for the stadium but still want to watch the action, head to one of Preston’s lively sports pubs. The Slug & Lettuce is a safe bet for big screens and lively crowds, while the Hesketh’s Arms on New Hall Lane is a more traditional pub with Sky Sports, darts and a great garden. The Guild Merchant also draws a friendly crowd for football, rugby, and cricket.
Getting active in Preston
If you’re looking to make your stay in Preston more active, there are plenty of activities on offer. These include:
- Parkrun- Preston’s Parkrun in Avenham and Miller Parks is a real local gem. Every Saturday morning, hundreds of people turn up to walk, jog, or run a 5k loop through some of the city’s most scenic green space. It’s totally free, you don’t need to be an athlete, and the vibe is friendly and encouraging. This can be a great way to start your weekend in Preston, whether it’s your first parkrun, or whether you have attended before.
- Climbing and mountaineering- If you like your exercise vertical, there are some top options here too. Boulder UK in Walton Summit is a brilliant indoor bouldering centre, suitable for all abilities. It’s great for trying something new or keeping your routine going while travelling. Preston also has its own Mountaineering Club, running since 1933, offering climbing activities, hill walks and social events. This can be a great point of contact for outdoor lovers, and you might be able to plan your trip around their schedule.
- Golf- If golf’s your thing, you’re in good hands. Preston Golf Club is a beautifully kept 18-hole course that’s open to visitors. Ashton & Lea Golf Club is another popular option, known for being well-maintained and good for both casual players and those after more of a challenge.
- Alternative and social sports- If you’re looking for something a bit different, Preston Roller Girls host roller derby events and welcome newcomers. You can watch a game, or even join in, depending on the schedule. There’s also a small but fun Ultimate Frisbee scene, often organising games in local parks. These are brilliant ways to meet locals, get a bit of exercise, and enjoy something out of the ordinary.
- Inclusive sports- Preston is home to a strong and inclusive sports community. The Preston Panthers Disability Sports Club runs regular sessions in football, cricket, badminton, swimming and more for young people aged 5–25. Red Rose Sports Club also supports inclusive sports for children and adults from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’d love to be involved in truly exclusive sports, even just for a session, or you just want to support a welcoming local club, this side of Preston really shines.
Watersports and outdoor adventures in Preston
Preston’s waterfront doesn’t just look great, it’s also home to all kinds of watersports. At Preston Docks you’ll find opportunities to try out kayaking, paddleboarding, or even dragon boat racing with the Preston Dragons club. This can be a great way to see the city from a different angle and do something adventurous without heading too far out of town.
If you’d rather keep your feet dry but still want fresh air, there are plenty of running and cycling trails linking up green spaces and paths around the city, including the impressive Guild Wheel.
Further afield, you can find The Forest of Bowland which is fantastic for hikes in nature and even gliding at the Bowland Forest Gliding Club near Chipping.
Why should you add sport to your trip to Preston?
Whether you watch a match at Deepdale, or you head out for an afternoon of exploration in the Bowland Forest, Preston has a wide range of sports and activities on offer. Getting involved, even just for an afternoon, can transform your experience of Preston. You’ll meet new people and discover parts of the city that you might not have found otherwise. And whether you’re on your own, with family, or on a work trip, it can give your stay a new sense of energy and fun.
If you’re looking for a weekend break, or longer, that’s packed with sports related activities, or you just want to try something new, Preston is the perfect choice. 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. Why not take a look at what we can offer today?