Preston
Thinking of Moving to Preston?
Preston is Lancashire's only city and one of the North West's most vibrant places to live. Located just north of Chorley, Preston combines excellent transport links, outstanding education, a thriving city centre and an abundance of green spaces, making it a popular choice for families, professionals, students and retirees alike.
As the administrative centre of Lancashire and home to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), Preston offers the convenience of city living while remaining surrounded by beautiful countryside. Whether you're buying your first home, relocating for work or looking to rent, Preston has a diverse property market and a neighbourhood to suit every lifestyle. Preston's central location also makes it an ideal base for commuting across the North West.
Why Live in Preston?
Preston offers the perfect balance of city amenities and outdoor living. The city centre features a wide selection of shops, restaurants, cafés, entertainment venues and cultural attractions, while surrounding suburbs provide quieter residential neighbourhoods with excellent schools and parks.
The city is steeped in history, from the famous Preston Guild to landmarks such as the restored Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library. Residents also enjoy a lively food scene, year-round events and excellent leisure facilities. With its close proximity to Chorley, Manchester, Liverpool and the Lake District, Preston is a fantastic location for both work and leisure.
Schools & Education
Preston is an excellent choice for families and students. The city is home to a wide selection of highly regarded primary and secondary schools, alongside independent schools and specialist education providers.
Higher education is a major attraction, with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) welcoming thousands of students each year and contributing to Preston's vibrant atmosphere. Nearby Runshaw College in Leyland is also one of the North West's leading sixth-form colleges, providing excellent further education opportunities for students from Preston and the surrounding areas.
Transport Links
Preston is one of the best-connected cities in the North West.
Preston railway station, located on the West Coast Main Line, provides direct services to London, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Birmingham, making it one of Lancashire's busiest transport hubs. The city also benefits from excellent road connections via the M6, M55, M61 and nearby M65, offering straightforward travel to Chorley, Blackpool, Manchester and beyond.
Comprehensive local bus services and extensive cycling routes, including the popular Guild Wheel, make getting around the city simple.
Shops & Everyday Amenities
Preston offers an excellent range of shopping and everyday amenities.
The city centre is home to St George's Shopping Centre, Preston Markets, high street retailers, independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Residents also benefit from retail parks, supermarkets, leisure facilities, cinemas and fitness centres throughout the city.
For those living in Preston, nearby Chorley provides additional shopping and leisure options, giving residents even greater choice across Central Lancashire.
Places of Worship & Community
Preston is a diverse and welcoming city with a wide variety of places of worship reflecting its multicultural community. Residents have access to Anglican, Catholic, Methodist, Baptist and other Christian churches, as well as several mosques, Hindu temples, Sikh gurdwaras and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Community centres, libraries, sports clubs, volunteer organisations and cultural festivals help create a strong sense of belonging for residents of all backgrounds.
Healthcare
Healthcare provision in Preston is excellent. The city is served by numerous GP surgeries, pharmacies and dental practices, with Royal Preston Hospital providing major emergency and specialist services for Central Lancashire. Residents also have convenient access to Chorley and South Ribble Hospital, offering a wide range of outpatient, diagnostic and rehabilitation services.
Parks & Leisure
Despite being a city, Preston boasts an impressive collection of parks and open spaces.
Popular destinations include Avenham and Miller Parks, Moor Park, Haslam Park, Winckley Square and the scenic Guild Wheel, a 21-mile circular walking and cycling route around the city. Nature lovers can also explore the nearby Brockholes Nature Reserve, while sports enthusiasts benefit from leisure centres, golf courses and numerous community sports clubs. Preston has more than 200 parks and green spaces, making it one of Lancashire's greenest urban areas.
Who is Preston Ideal For?
Families – Excellent schools, parks, healthcare and a wide choice of housing make Preston a fantastic place to raise children.
Commuters – Outstanding rail and motorway connections provide quick access to Chorley, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and London.
First-Time Buyers – A varied property market and excellent local amenities make Preston an attractive place to get onto the property ladder.
Students & Professionals – The presence of UCLan, major employers and excellent transport links creates a vibrant and well-connected city.
Retirees – Superb healthcare, green spaces and a wide range of local amenities offer an excellent quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Preston a good place to live?
Yes. Preston is one of Lancashire's most popular cities, offering excellent schools, outstanding transport links, a thriving city centre, beautiful parks and a wide range of housing options.
Is Preston good for commuters?
Absolutely. With direct rail services across the UK and easy access to the M6, M55 and M61, Preston is one of the best-connected cities in the North West.
Are there good schools in Preston?
Yes. Preston has an excellent choice of primary and secondary schools, alongside higher education at UCLan and nearby Runshaw College.
What amenities are available in Preston?
Residents enjoy shopping centres, Preston Markets, restaurants, cafés, healthcare services, leisure facilities, parks, entertainment venues and excellent transport links, making Preston one of the most convenient places to live in Lancashire.
Looking to Buy or Rent in Preston?
If you're considering moving to Preston, our experienced local team can help you find the right property. Whether you're buying, renting or selling, we're here to provide expert local knowledge and friendly advice every step of the way.
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