Preston: Military History, Architecture and a Historic Railway

Preston offers a wide range of experiences for a stay: military history collections, church architecture, a historic steam railway and a long greenway for walking and cycling. It is also home to Lancashire Archives, Miller Park and Preston Markets.

Museums and Railway History

The Lancashire Infantry Museum houses one of the largest and most significant collections of infantry regimental artefacts in the country. Its exhibitions, archive and military history library illustrate the history of the East, South and Loyal North Lancashire Regiments and their predecessors. The story spans from 1689 to the 21st century. Fulwood Barracks, home of the museum, is in the northern suburbs of the city of Preston, near the M6 and M55 motorways.

The Ribble Steam Railway offers rides on a historic steam-powered passenger train along the Preston Dock and Riverside Railway Line. The round trip covers three miles; this refers to the return journey, not a one-way trip. If you are planning a train ride, check the current timetable in advance, as operating details can change. Ribble Steam Railway & Museum is also home to one of the largest collections of industrial locomotives in the country. The ride on the named line and the locomotive collection therefore offer two distinct ways to explore railway history.

Church Architecture and Historic Places

You can admire the exterior and interior of the Church of St Walburge. Its very tall, octagonal spire reaches 314 feet. Inside, the church evokes a medieval hall, with an impressive hammerbeam roof and painted statues. The spire and the interior offer different architectural impressions: the height of the tower outside, and the hall-like feel and roof details inside.

As of 2026, The Harris has ramps at its entrance on Market Square, step-free access from Lancaster Road and a lift to the main floors and gallery spaces. Facilities can change; check the access details that matter to you before your visit. Lancashire Archives is a five-minute walk from Preston railway station. This walking time gives you a concrete reference point for planning an archive visit. Miller Park also has a clearly dated historic connection: it was laid out in 1864 to a design by Edward Milner.

Greenway and Preston Markets

The Preston Guild Wheel is a 21-mile greenway that circles the city of Preston and connects it with the surrounding area. The route is intended for walking and cycling. South of the city, it follows the gently meandering River Ribble. For planning purposes, it is useful to distinguish between the total route and the riverside section: 21 miles refers to the Guild Wheel as a whole, while the River Ribble describes its southern stretch.

Preston Market Hall sells fresh local meat, fresh local fish, vegetables and dairy products. Preston Markets also includes cafés and takeaway outlets serving hot food that you can eat on site or take away. The market offering can change; check the current options if you have a particular need. The distinction is useful for planning your day: fresh food is the focus at the Market Hall, while cafés and takeaway outlets offer hot food to eat on site or take away.

Discover more destinations: Withnell, Burnley, Thornton-Cleveleys, Sabden, Accrington, Scarisbrick, Whalley, Wilpshire.

For the wider travel overview: Lancashire.