New at UCLan? Here’s your ultimate guide to the perfect Fresher’s night out in Preston town centre
Over the past few years, Preston town centre has become a vibrant cultural hub with a growing variety of bars, pubs and breweries. Many of these venues are located right on the doorstep of the University of Central Lancashire and are popular with students for their low prices, lively atmospheres and friendly environments. If you’re new in town, here are a few recommendations to kickstart your university social life.
1. Lost Bar and Pizzeria
Stonebaked Neapolitan pizzas, a variety of spirits, IPAs and wine, and a rustic garden terrace that looks straight out of southern Italy- what’s not to love? Tucked away on the bustling Market Street, Lost Bar and Pizzeria offers a mellow atmosphere midweek, with live DJ events at the weekend. If you want a sophisticated evening, look no further.
Where: 133 Market Street, 5 minutes from campus
Pricing: ££
2. Northern Way
If you’re a sports fan, enjoy a game of pool or like a livelier atmosphere, the Northern Way pub should be on your Saturday Night itinerary. This affordable yet modern pub is popular with students. It boasts 12 large indoor and outdoor screens, perfect for viewing the next big Premier League game with friends. There’s a wide variety of ciders, ales and lagers on tap, but save room for their famous £6 cocktail jars.
Where: 79 Friargate, 2 minutes from campus
Pricing: £
3. The Adelphi
If you’re looking for classic pub grub to start your evening, you don’t need to look far. As far as location goes, the Adelphi may be a gem, but certainly isn’t hidden as it's right next to UCLan’s Student Centre at the heart of campus. With a varied food and drinks menu and a large beer garden that can be enjoyed year-round thanks to heated booths, the Adelphi is a Preston staple. The pub even offers a student discount on some drinks – ask at the bar for more info! There’s also a quiz night every Thursday.
Where: Next to the Student Centre
Pricing: ££
4. Chew's Yard
New on the Preston nightlife scene, Chew’s Yard is already becoming one of the city’s most popular spots. From the outside, the converted workshop looks unassuming, but inside there are 5 different food and drink stalls. From cocktails and ciders to fresh charcuterie boards, Chew’s Yard caters to all your post-lecture needs. There are two event rooms that regularly hosts live DJs, comedians and bands, so keep your eyes peeled for the next local gig.
Where: 111 Market Street, 5 minutes from campus
Pricing: £££
5. Kuckoo Cocktail Bar
Renowned for its hard-rock decor, there's nowhere else quite like Kuckoo. The small, dark-lit, leather-seated room gives this unique cocktail bar a VIP feel. Their menu consists of over a dozen cocktails, from classic whiskey lemons to more eclectic creations. Some of my favourites are the 10 Dollar Shake and a cocktail inspired by Mario Kart’s Rainbow Road. All enjoyed to a rock n’ roll soundtrack.
Where: 16-17 Fox Street, 10 minutes from campus
Pricing: ££
