If you’re thinking about moving to Preston for university, you’re in for a treat! This lively city is home to the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) and offers students an exciting mix of history, culture, and buzzing student life. With so much to explore, it’s no wonder Preston is such a popular student destination.
Looking for more insights into the student life and best things to do in Preston? Check out our Preston City Guide for a deep dive into what makes this city a brilliant place to live while you study.
But first, let’s answer some of the most common questions about Preston before we dive into the 15 facts you probably didn’t know about this place…
Yes! Preston was granted city status in 2002 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee. While smaller than some of the UK's other cities, Preston has everything you need for a great student experience, from shopping centres to historical attractions and beautiful parks.
Preston is located in the heart of Lancashire in the North West of England, with great transport links to nearby Manchester, Liverpool, and the beautiful Lake District. It’s perfectly situated for students looking for a mix of city life and easy access to the countryside.
Preston boasts a rich history, from Roman roads to the Industrial Revolution, and is packed with fun facts—from the UK’s first KFC to the country's longest continuous row of red phone boxes! Whether you’re into sports, history, or the arts, there’s something for everyone here.
Now, let's take a look at some fascinating facts about Preston!
If you’ve ever met anyone from Preston, chances are you’ve already heard this particular “nugget” of information!
It might surprise you, but Preston is home to the UK’s first-ever KFC, opened in 1965 on Fishergate High Street. Ray Allen, the man behind this milestone, personally met Colonel Sanders before setting up shop. This was the first US fast-food chain to open in the UK – it wasn’t until a decade later that McDonald's, Burger King and Pizza Hut arrived on British shores.
Predating the arrival of fried chicken of the Kentucky variety, Preston boasts a very rich history, with roots dating back to Roman times and evidence of Roman roads running through the town. The famous Viking silver hoard, the Cuerdale Hoard, was also discovered near the city. Fast forward a few centuries, and Preston played a key role in the Industrial Revolution thanks to its thriving textile industry, becoming a hub for cotton production.
Butter Pie is a must-try when you’re in Preston. This humble yet tasty Lancashire delicacy is made of onions, potatoes and of course, butter – baked until golden with a thick pastry crust. This savoury pie is a half-time favourite at Preston North End Football Club, and was even mentioned in former-Beatle Paul McCartney’s 1971 song Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey.
Rumour has it that his time in Preston earlier that year inspired famous Victorian author Charles Dickens' 1854 novel Hard Times. The writer stayed in the town during the Great Lock Out – he stayed at the Old Bull hotel (now the Bull & Royal Hotel) on Church Street, meaning he would have witnessed the fallout from the industrial conflict first-hand.
A bold statement, but Preston North End FC probably has the best claim to such a title. Their Deepdale stadium is the oldest continuously running football league ground in the entire world. In 1889, they became the first team to win the League and FA Cup double—an achievement that cemented their place in football history. The National Football Museum was also originally based in Preston; however, it has since moved to Manchester, much to the dismay of Preston fans.
According to visitpreston.com, Preston’s annual Caribbean Carnival was founded in 1974, making it one of the oldest in the UK. It's a popular community event that celebrates Caribbean culture and community spirit within the city. Every year, the streets come alive with fantastic costumes, live music, dancing, and a colourful parade.
Did you know the term ‘teetotal’ originated in Preston? The Preston Temperance Society, founded by Joseph Livesey in 1833, founded the teetotalism movement, advocating for complete abstinence from alcohol. Today, the city offers plenty of alcohol-free fun for students, from green spaces to shops and cultural spots. For inspiration, check out our Preston City Guide!
Yes, you read that right. Preston may play host to over 35,000 students, but its bee population causes quite a buzz!
In 2018, UCLan installed three beehives holding 150,000 - 300,000 honeybees on the rooftop of their new student centre on the Adelphi roundabout, helping to improve the local bee population in the Preston area and providing students with learning opportunities.
Preston’s St Walburge's Church, located just a short walk from UCLan, boasts the tallest spire of any parish church in England, standing at a staggering 309 feet. This incredible Gothic Revival structure can be spotted from miles around and is a must-see for anyone living in or visiting the city.
Ever wondered where the UK's motorway system began? The M6 motorway, which runs right past Preston, started here with the opening of the Preston Bypass in 1958. While it was a major milestone in transport, it also saw the first motorway traffic jam—and car crash—within its first week of opening!
Along Market Street in Preston, you’ll find the longest continuous row of classic red telephone boxes in the UK. These nine iconic cast iron kiosks are a quirky reminder of the city’s heritage and a great photo-op for students exploring the area.
Preston is the birthplace of the Dick, Kerr Ladies, one of the most famous women’s football teams in history who paved the way for the women’s game we know today. Formed in 1917, the team became one of the most successful women's football teams in history. Playing a total of 828 games in the UK and abroad, they only lost 24 games and drew 46.
Preston is home to one of the UK’s oldest family-run grocery chains—E.H. Booth & Co. Ltd. Founded in 1847, Booths has grown to become a beloved supermarket in the North, even earning the nickname ‘Waitrose of the North’.
While Bristol is the home of Aardman Animations studio, the creator of Wallace & Gromit, Nick Park, was born and raised in Preston. He studied Art and Design at Preston College, and the Nick Park Library Learning Centre at UCLan is named in his honour. The inspiration for Wallace's character is rumoured to come from his old English teacher in Preston!
Leo Baxendale, the comic book artist behind iconic The Beano characters such as The Bash Street Kids and Minnie the Minx, was also born in Preston and studied at Preston Catholic College. He also helped create the classic kids comics The Beezer and Wham.
Believe it or not, Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, visited Preston during a trip to the UK. He stayed in the city centre to visit family, and a blue plaque commemorating his stay can be found at the corner of Cheapside and Friargate.
So, there you have it, 15 things you probably didn’t know about Preston! Whether you’re moving here for university or just visiting, Preston is full of surprises. If you're planning to study here, why not check out our Preston City Guide for even more things to do?
And, if you’re looking for student accommodation in Preston, Sanctuary Students offer two fantastic options at Moor Lane Halls and Walker Street. Both are within a 10-minute walk from UCLan, providing you with affordable and convenient places to call home.