Preston on a budget: 5 days of fun

Experience the charm of Preston without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Preston, United Kingdom on a limited budget can be an enriching experience. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by taking a walking tour of the city centre, including the Harris Museum and Art Gallery. Moreover, there are many affordable options for accommodation and dining, such as budget hotels and local eateries.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Preston

  • Check into Ibis Preston North, budget-friendly hotel close to city center
  • Visit the Harris Museum & Art Gallery, free entry and local history exhibits
  • Stroll through the beautiful Avenham and Miller Parks, with scenic river views
  • Lunch at The Townhouse, trendy café with vegan options and a courtyard
  • Catch a show at the charming Continental Pub, famous for live music and events
Day 2

Enchanting Countryside

  • Take a picturesque drive to Beacon Fell Country Park, stunning views and walking trails
  • Visit the Ribble Steam Railway, a vintage train ride with friendly volunteers
  • Lunch at The Bistro, traditional pub food with a modern twist
  • Visit the majestic Lancaster Castle, medieval tours and insight into local court history
  • Wind down with a pint at The Ale Emporium, friendly staff and a varied selection of ales
Day 3

Shopping and Culture

  • Visit St. George's Shopping Center, indoor shopping with local and popular brands
  • Explore the Museum of Lancashire, interactive exhibits and insight into county life
  • Lunch at Roper Hall, affordable pub food with outdoor seating
  • Attend a performance at the Preston Guild Hall, renowned for hosting concerts and events
  • Finish the day with a drink at the Dog and Partridge, a cozy pub with a great atmosphere
Day 4

Beach Day

  • Drive to Blackpool's famous Pleasure Beach, thrilling rides and seaside attractions
  • Walk along Blackpool's iconic promenade and enjoy the views
  • Lunch at The Velvet Coaster, traditional pub food and sea views
  • Visit the iconic Blackpool Tower, stunning architecture and spectacular views
  • Catch the sunset at South Beach at St. Annes, a tranquil end to a fun-filled day
Day 5

Farewell Preston

  • Visit the quaint village of Garstang, farmers market and charming streets
  • Lunch at The Wheatsheaf, rustic pub food and traditional ales
  • Take a scenic drive to the idyllic Brockholes Nature Reserve, diverse wildlife and lakeside walks
  • Finish the trip with a pint at The Moorbrook, cozy atmosphere and a friendly welcome.

Length of stay

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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

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