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Preston claims to be the home of football, with Preston North End becoming the first team ever to 'win the double' and become League Champions and win the FA cup in the same season. But Preston has a lot more to offer than just football...
Preston has just one university within its city – The University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) - and its 32,000+ student population dominate the heart of their city.
If you are thinking of joining their ranks, our city guide has a few things you should try when you get there...
1. Flag Market Outdoor Market
Good for: Finding spontaneous events.
What it is: The outdoor market is a hub for all things Preston, ranging from gigs, protests and food stalls.
Why you should go: If you’re having a dull day, the flag market is sure to have something going on. Events run here all year round, and they are so diverse that everyone is kept happy. It’s effectively the square in which most things happen, including a carnival, armed forces day and multiple exhibitions.
2. The Warehouse
Good for: Partying until the early hours.
What it is: Preston’s three floor alternative nightclub.
Why you should go: Also known as Warey, this nightclub is a student favourite for a legendary night out. Each floor plays different music to suit everyone’s tastes, and there are plenty of drinks deals on offer to keep you going all night. Plus, get free entry with your UCLAN card before 11pm on Tuesdays.
3. Roper Hall
Good for: Hanging out in a chilled setting.
What it is: Preston’s leading venue, complete with club nights and relaxed daytime areas.
Why you should go: Roper Hall is a stress-buster. The place is decked out with pool tables, games rooms, retro-style arcade machines and much more. It’s a great place to hang out after lectures, and is located in the bustling area of Friargate.
4. Preston Wall
Good for: A fun way to keep fit.
What it is: An indoor climbing centre.
Why you should go: If you need to shift the 'freshers 5' but are bored of the gym, this place offers a different way for you to get fit whilst having some fun with your mates. With walls for both bouldering and roped climbing, there will be plenty to challenge you.
5. Adelphi
Good for: Extremely affordable drinks and food.
What it is: Preston students' favourite pub.
Why you should go: Slap bang in the middle of UCLAN’s campus, The Adelphi is easily the most popular joint around. Open to both students and the local population, it’s a diverse place with tons of entertainment and drinks deals. Complete with 2 huge projector screens and numerous TV’s, you won’t miss out on catching a sport event here either.
6. Harris Museum
Good for: Exploring the local history and art.
What it is: A collection of modern and historical emblems.
Why you should go: Commonly referred to as a treasure trove of various artefacts, the museum has something for everyone. For the more art-orientated students, historical paintings of all types are found scattered inside, along with regular exhibitions by more modern creators. The gift shop is also excellent, so if you need to send any gifts to your family at home, this is a good spot.
7. Brockholes
Good for: Nature buffs.
What it is: A nature reserve, home to lots of rare species.
Why you should go: When you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a change of scenery, this is the place to be. Complete with stunning wildlife and vast numbers of large lakes, Brockholes stands out from the rest of Preston to provide a place of complete tranquillity. Events run all year here within the 250 acre nature reserve, and is a great place to take the parents too when they come to visit.
8. Church of St Walburge
Good for: History fans.
What it is: Preston’s main church just north of the city centre.
Why you should go: For your chance to get involved in the city’s history and find out a little more on your new home, the church is a good place to start. Having stood since the mid-19th century, St Walburge’s is known across the UK for having the tallest spire of any parish church in England. The spire alone stands at a massive 94 metres, and is certainly a landmark to add to your Preston bucket list.
9. Avenham Park
Good for: A peaceful stroll.
What it is: A break from the urban landscape, in the form of a heritage park in the centre.
Why you should go: The park itself is beautiful, and is a hub for the community. Pop on down for a picnic after a long day of lectures and find a large portion of the student population joining you on a sunny day. The park also holds a marriage licence, so if you’re lucky you might spot two people tying the knot by the large water fountain.
10. The Ferret
Good for: A night of dancing
What it is: The most popular live music venue in Preston
Why you should go: The Ferret channels all things American, with a US style bar, open mic nights and cask ale all day every day. If you’re a fan of smaller gigs, this is the place for you, with multiple events during the week. The food portions here are a good way to cure a hangover, and give you the much needed fuel before a long day of studying.
As you can see, despite being a small city, Preston has a lot to offer the 32,000+ University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) students studying there. Here are some of the student reviews we've collected about Preston…
“Everything you could want is in Preston. Lots of good bars and pubs for nights out.” Nathan, Computer Aided Engineering BEng (Hons)
"It's not jam packed and not too quiet either, just right.” Ghulaim, Aerospace Engineering BEng (Hons)
"Really like Preston, good range of shops.” Bonita
“The campus is in city centre so accessible and a lot to do.” Nena, Human Resource Management BA (Hons)
“A very welcoming city.” Anonymous, Operating Department Practice BSc (Hons)
“For a small city, there's a lot to do” Charlotte, Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy BSc (Hons)
Next steps:
If you like the look of Preston, why not check out UCLAN and the courses they offer. Or even better, why not book an open day visit to see the city for yourself.
