Preston's Past & Play: A 2-Day Family Adventure!
Making memories in Preston, the perfect family adventure awaits!
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
A family-friendly trip to Preston, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases a vast collection of artifacts and interactive exhibitions that are both educational and enjoyable for children. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Avenham and Miller Parks, where you can picnic, play games, or simply relax amidst beautiful green surroundings.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Shake up your morning routine with a visit to the Cheeky Monkey's Play Barn, where kids can unleash their inner monkeys while parents sip coffee in blissful serenity.
- Head over to Ribble Steam Railway for a charming journey through Lancashire's picturesque landscapes aboard a vintage steam train. Choo choo, all aboard!
- Make your way to Brockholes Nature Reserve, a wildlife haven where you can spot otters, butterflies, and even elusive dragonflies. Don't forget your binoculars!
- Explore the depths of space (well, sort of) at the Space Centre, where you can marvel at interactive exhibits and gaze at the stars in their state-of-the-art planetarium.
- Treat the family to a scrumptious dinner at The Silk Route, a delightful Asian fusion restaurant where you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes inspired by the Silk Road.
- Start your day at the iconic Preston Guild Hall, a historic venue that houses everything from music concerts to theater productions. Check the schedule for an event that tickles your fancy!
- Dive into history at the Harris Museum & Art Gallery, a treasure trove of art and artifacts. Don't miss the stunning Egyptian collection or the local Preston Stories exhibition.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Ribble Link Canal, enjoying the tranquility of the water and the vibrant surroundings. Count how many ducks you can spot along the way!
- Fuel up for lunch at Glovers Bar & Restaurant, where you can savor hearty pub classics in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- Round off your Preston adventure with a visit to Samlesbury Hall, a magnificent medieval manor house that will transport you back in time. Watch out for friendly ghostly encounters!
- Now that you have your itinerary, it's time to embark on a family-friendly escapade in vibrant Preston. Enjoy the quirky charm and create lasting memories!
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Preston by plane is to fly into Manchester Airport and then take a train or a coach to Preston. There are direct trains from Manchester Airport railway station to Preston railway station that run every half an hour. Alternatively, you can take a coach from Manchester Airport to Preston Bus Station, which takes approximately an hour.
Car
Driving to Preston is convenient if you have your own transportation. The city is easily accessible via the M6 motorway and A59. There are several car parks available in the city centre and the surrounding areas. It is important to note that there may be traffic congestion during peak periods.
Train
If you're travelling domestically within the UK, taking a train to Preston is highly recommended. There are regular train services from London Euston to Preston station, which takes approximately two and a half hours. Other major cities such as Liverpool and Manchester also provide regular train services to the city.
Boat
Unfortunately, there are no boat services available to get to Preston as it is not located near any major waterways or ports.
Bus
Taking a coach to Preston is a comfortable and affordable option. National Express and Megabus operate regular coach services to Preston from major cities in the UK such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool. The coach station in Preston is located near the city centre and is within walking distance to many hotels and attractions.
