Preston: the city with culture around every corner

Whether you want to catch up with friends, enjoy a night out or go shopping, you're spoilt for choice in Preston city centre.

Whilst Preston is a lively and modern city, we’re also proud of our heritage. Over 70 buildings and structures around Preston are listed by English Heritage. As you explore, you’ll encounter Gothic churches and beautiful Georgian architecture. You'll also find remnants of the Industrial Revolution all around you.

The iconic Harris Museum and Art Gallery host exhibitions and artefacts. In front of the Harris Museum, you’ll find the historic Flag Market, a focal point for community events and street festivals all year round.

The city is home to a thriving music scene, and you can enjoy live comedy and theatre shows. Preston’s cultural calendar includes the Lancashire Encounter Festival and Lancashire Mela.

Urban explorers can explore its historic side street, here you’ll find all manner of hidden delights. From offbeat fashion boutiques and quirky cafés to bistros and tapas bars. Preston’s recently refurbished market will delight foodies and bargain hunters alike.

Festivals and other cultural events

Here are some of the biggest cultural events to look forward to in Preston.

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High street cafes and shops
High street cafes and shops

Preston by night

When night falls, the city comes alive. Dine on tasty cuisine from every corner of the world, or watch the world go by from the windows of bars and lounges. Drink ales in historic taverns, catch a film or head to a nightclub and party into the small hours.

Don’t worry if alcohol isn’t your thing. Preston is full of mocktail lounges, live music and comedy nights. So, you won’t miss out on the fun.

Entertainment awaits around every corner. There are cinemas, bowling alleys, escape rooms and skateparks. If you're up for it you can go for a home game at Preston North End’s Deepdale Stadium.

And you can do it all for less than you might think, too. Preston is one of the UK’s most affordable cities (ParcelHero’s Cost of Living Index 2015), so you can have a great time on a budget.

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Eat dinner with friends in Plau
Eat dinner with friends in Plau