Preston on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Discover the charm of Preston without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Preston is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. With affordable accommodation options and plenty of free activities, you can explore the city without breaking the bank. Don't miss the beautiful parks and historic landmarks, including the Harris Museum and Art Gallery.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Preston's History

  • Check-in at Travelodge Preston Central hotel with comfortable beds & central location
  • Visit the Harris Museum, a beautiful neo-classical building housing a vast collection of art & artifacts from the local area
  • Head to St Walburge's Church, the tallest church in the UK outside of London, for stunning panoramic views of the city
  • Take a stroll around Avenham Park, a beautiful Victorian park with a Japanese garden & rose garden
  • End the day with dinner at The Fleece Inn, a cozy pub with an extensive menu of classic British pub fare
Day 2

Discovering Preston's Foodie Scene

  • Start the day with breakfast at The Larder, a trendy café serving up delicious locally sourced food
  • Visit the bustling Preston Market, filled with stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products
  • Head to the Continental, a popular arts venue and café, for lunch and maybe catch a performance or exhibition
  • Visit The Orchard, an organic farm shop selling local organic produce, handmade cheeses, and a wide selection of wines
  • End the day with a pint at The New Continental, a historic pub with a friendly atmosphere
Day 3

Exploring the Surrounding Area

  • Drive to the picturesque village of Garstang with its weekly market and quaint shops
  • Visit the ruins of the stunning Cistercian Abbey, located in the peaceful valley of the River Ribble
  • Drive to the nearby coastal town of Lytham St Annes, with its stunning beaches and charming independent shops
  • Lunch at Betty's Tipis, a unique outdoor eatery serving up delicious wood-fired pizzas
  • Head back to Preston to visit the Guild Wheel, a 21-mile circular route around the city, superb for scenic walks and bike rides
Day 4

Last Day in Preston

  • Visit the Preston Docks, with its vibrant eateries, shops, and a marina hosting canal boats
  • Head to Brockholes, a 250-acre nature reserve with walking trails, observation points, & a floating visitors center
  • Lunch at The Moorbrook, a classic pub with a reputation for great food, craft beer, and a warm welcome
  • Relax with a cup of tea at the beautiful Miller Park, a quiet oasis of green space in the city center
  • Say goodbye to Preston with a fond farewell to the locals before checking out and heading home.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Preston

Welcome to a city that sounds like it's straight out of a Jane Austen novel, but rest assured, there won't be any corsets or petticoats required. Instead, Preston offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and more pubs than you can shake a pint glass at.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Preston's Playful Journey: Adventures for the Whole Family

Preston, United Kingdom, is a charming destination for a family-friendly trip with its range of activities suitable for all ages. Explore enchanting parks and gardens like Avenham and Miller Parks, perfect for picnics and afternoon strolls. Discover the rich history and culture of the city at attractions such as the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, ensuring an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Experience the Best of Budget-Friendly Preston!

Exploring Preston on a limited budget is feasible as there are several pocket-friendly options. Visit the Harris Museum and Art Gallery for free or take a stroll at Avenham and Miller Parks, which are also free to access. Inexpensive eateries like Otter's Pocket and Crumbs Sandwiches offer delicious food options.

Escape to Romance: 3 Days in Preston

A romantic trip to Preston entails exploring the picturesque Avenham and Miller Parks, taking a relaxing boat ride down the River Ribble, and indulging in a delightful meal at the Winckley Square Hotel's signature restaurant. From its stunning landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, this charming city provides the ideal backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Preston on a Shoestring: A 2-Day Adventure

A budget trip to Preston promises to be an exciting adventure for those who love history, art, and culture. Explore the city's rich heritage by visiting the Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library, admiring the majestic architecture of the Preston Guild Hall, and taking a stroll through the beautiful Avenham Park. With affordable hostels, cheap food options, and free attractions, Preston makes for a budget-friendly destination that won't disappoint.