Popping to Preston

Located on our upcoming London to Blackpool route, Preston sits in the heart of Lancashire and is a city with a great industrial past and present. A former market town, it was given city status in 2002 and is a flourishing centre for the textile industry.

Whether you are there to visit friends or family, or stopping by on route to another destination, here are three fun things to you can do and see while you are there.

Climb aboard a steam-powered vintage train

As the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Lancashire’s Industrial Railway played a huge part in shaping the society we live in today. Once you have arrived into Preston station, take an onward journey to Ribble Steam Railway, located on Preston’s historic docklands. Here you will find a combined museum and functioning heritage railway line, where you can learn as well as ride!

Travel along Preston’s Dock and Riverside Railway Line on a vintage steam train, taking you across the Preston’s Marina impressive swing bridge and following the glorious grassy banks of the River Ribble. This is definitely one for all train enthusiasts – big and little!

Buy local in the Preston Market Hall

Re-opened in early 2018, the new Preston Market Hall is an impressive structure – clad in glass and timber, it provides a contemporary environment to shop for all kinds of local treasures.

You will find an abundance of fresh, local meat, fish, vegetables and dairy products, from independent producers. As well as boutique jewellery, accessories and make-up at amazing prices. There are also many places to grab a gourmet snack, a specialist coffee, or a cocktail – depending on what you fancy!

Be at one with nature

If it’s exploring and being out in the wild that you love the most, then you and your family will love a day out at Brockholes Nature Reserve. A 250-acre nature reserve, this is a Lancashire Wildlife Trust flagship site with so much to see and do.

There are hides, river paths and viewing points, which have been specifically designed to allow you to get closer to nature and wildlife without disturbing it. From diving ducks to reed warblers and mute swans, you can get up close and personal with hundreds of fascinating species as you enjoy a leisurely stroll around the reserve.

Don’t forget to also check out the iconic floating Visitor Village for some interactive learning fun, plus plenty of delicious sweat-treats at the Kestrel Kitchen!

Book your journey in advance with Grand Central today and save on your train tickets to Preston.