Things to do

Preston’s reputation as a vibrant cultural centre with a distinct sense of identity has grown in recent years, but its proud heritage stretches back many centuries, way beyond the awarding of city status in 2002.

The district of Fulwood has long been one of Preston’s most desirable areas, with highly-rated local schools, shopping, pubs and restaurants, along with major businesses and employment centres such as the Lancashire Evening Post and the Royal Preston Hospital.

Fulwood also offers plenty of opportunities to relax and spend quality time with friends or family.  With an abundance of local parks, Fulwood is one of Preston’s greenest areas. Set within 120 vivid green acres, Preston Golf Club is within easy reach of Bluebell Meadows and is recognised as one of the region’s best courses. Lying just to the south of the aptly named development is Masons Wood – a Woodland Trust-managed area recognised as one of the UK’s finest bluebell woods.

Cyclists are also well catered for, with the famous Preston Guild Wheel cycle path running close to Bluebell Meadows. This 21-mile ‘greenway’ cycle route encircles the city, taking cyclists on a beautiful journey including stretches along the River Ribble and through the wetland splendour of Brockholes nature reserve.

Preston offers a host of options for culture, entertainment and business. The Harris Museum and Art Gallery has a strong reputation for its lively art programme, and Preston Market – in its stunning new glass and timber home – is the place to go for the very best in independent food and drink. Preston Marina, to the west of the city centre, is also alive with shops, restaurants and a cinema as well as plenty of waterborne activity.

Further afield, Fulwood is within easy reach of some of the UK’s most beautiful regions, including the Lancashire coast, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. For those in search of natural splendour will enjoy being within 30 minutes’ drive of the Forest of Bowland.

Preston railway station offers around 20 services every hour, including Virgin Trains’ direct London Euston service, which reaches the capital in just over two hours. There are regular direct services to Liverpool and Manchester, both taking around an hour, along with services up towards Lancaster, the Lake District and Scotland.