Harris Museum
Visit the Harris Museum on the Flag Market and take in some great art and exhibitions. Likewise Art students (or anyone with such an appreciation) will enjoy the Preston Art and Design Gallery (PAD) over the road which promotes the work of North West based artists and designers. All for free.
Parklife
In the summer heat (there will be some – honest!) relax in the city’s parks. Avenham Park in the centre features a great lawn amphitheatre while Moor Park is a large expanse near the student area where you can play, wander, study in the shade and take in a nice ice-cream (the cheapest van in the city is by the kid’s playground).
Beacon Fell
If that student stodge is getting to you then find someone with a car and head to Beacon Fell just a few miles north of the city. Offering spectacular views over to the Isle on Man (on a good day) you can get some exercise, grab some nice grub in the café and work off those alcohol calories!
Freebies
The Student’s Union at the Uni usually organises a nice bag of freebies for new freshers which in the past has included a dog-flavoured noodle pot (what!!), free energy drinks and other promotions from local clubs and firms. Can’t argue when it’s free.
Mad Ferret
The Mad Ferret on Fylde Road is one of Preston’s best kept secrets. Featuring a range of themed music nights, the pick of which is their weekly Open Mic night where you can hear a great range of improv music and unsigned bands for free or if you’re feeling brave get up and have a go yourself. In the past the Ferret has also hosted a free movie festival as well. Probably the best free night out in the city.
More about Preston
Irrespective of whether you're a first time visitor to the city, a frequently returning guest or a lifelong inhabitant, our guides are essential reading for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Preston.
nightlife
Preston has some of the best pubs in the North West. The most popular for students is the Adelphi at the top of Friargate, a large and busy student pub with a good heated beer garden. Every Thursday they host 'Quids'. Basically a huge variety of alcohol on offer for just £1. Entry is £…
eating out
With a student-centered city centre, Preston is the perfect place to grab a nice bite to eat on a budget. Apart from The Source at the UClan Union and student favourite The Adelphi nearby check out our guide to some of the most student-friendly eateries without the long walk. Bella Emilio's, Friarg…
health and fitness
The University has its own Health Centre (off Kirkham Street) where you will find your usual GP services. For those that like their exercise and to stay fit then Preston has all the amenities you’d expect from a decent sized city. The b
free things to do
Harris Museum Visit the Harris Museum on the Flag Market and take in some great art and exhibitions. Likewise Art students (or anyone with such an appreciation) will enjoy the Preston Art and Design Gallery (PAD) over the road which promotes the work of North West based artists and designers. All f…
shopping
The city’s shopping districts have grown of late with the re-development of the main shopping centre The St Georges Centre Mall, which features a variety of high street chains and smaller stores. Similarly The Fishergate Centre features the county’s largest Debenhams (if you like that so…
transport
With the Uni being so close to the town, it’s likely your only travel expense will be from digs to your place of study or heading home for the weekend. Bus S
