Visiting Preston? Here are some of our favourite places
If you're looking for interesting or historic places to visit with a senior, Preston has a great choice of places you can go.
Visiting Preston? Here are some of our favourite places
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
A 3 mile scenic railway ride through Preston Docks in refurbished 1960s coaches and engines restored by volunteers on display, it’s a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Mrs Ribble’s Tearoom serves a selection of hot & cold drinks and snacks. There are themed days and events throughout the year and you are welcome to take a picnic on the train. Based at Chain Caul Road, Ashton, PR2 2PD see their website for more details book tickets online or pay on the day. https://ribblesteam.org.uk
Winckley Square & Gardens
In the heart of the city centre lies a beautiful Georgian Square and it’s a lovely haven from the bustling main shopping street just a couple of minutes away. Developed in 1801 the magnificent Georgian townhouses were once home to many influential Preston residents including the co-founders of Horrocks Mill and the suffragette Edith Rigby. The gardens, originally private plots belonging to the residents, late became the public park which also features a statue of Sir Robert Peel. Much work has been done in recent years to improve and restore the gardens, courtesy of a Heritage Lottery Fund grant. The square also features several blue plaques which form part of the Preston Blue Plaque Trail. The Friends of Winckley Square organise walks, talks and events throughout the year, see their website for more details https://www.winckleysquarepreston.org/
Preston Blue Plaque Trail
Celebrating the memorable places and people which make Preston what it is today, blue plaques can be found all over the city centre, whether you set out on a casual walk to spot them all or tick one or two off each time you visit Preston you’ll certainly find something of interest and new plaques are added regularly. The walk follows city centre footpaths which are pushchair and wheelchair friendly. You can download a map and guide at https://www.visitpreston.com/things-to-see-and-do/Preston-Blue-Plaque-Trail
Avenham & Miller Parks
Historic Grade II listed Avenham & Miller parks are situated by the River Ribble just a short walk from the city centre. Set in a natural ampitheate the parks opened in 1867 and feature The Belvedere, The Swiss Chalet, The Boar War Memorial and Riverside Walk. The famous Japanese Garden was added in 1930. The original bandstand was replaced by a stage in the 1950s and now is the site of the Pavillion Cafe which opens every day https://www.visitpreston.com/article/3727/Avenham-and-Miller-Parks & https://visitpreston.com/article/3811/Pavilion-Cafe
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Situated just off the M6 at Preston, this 250 acre nature reserve opened in 2011 and features woodland walks, hides, paths and viewing points. The centre values accessibility for everyone https://www.brockholes.org/accessibility. The spectacular floating visitor village also houses The Kestrel Kitchen and the Ice Cream Cabin. See website for special events and passes https://www.brockholes.org/
