New at the University of Lancashire? Here’s your ultimate guide to the perfect Fresher’s night out in Preston town centre.
Over the past few years, Preston city centre has become a vibrant cultural hub with a growing variety of bars, pubs and breweries. Many of these venues are located right on the doorstep of the University of Lancashire and are popular with students for their low prices, lively atmospheres and friendly environments. If you’re new in town, here are a few recommendations to kickstart your university social life.
1. The Adelphi
If you’re looking for classic pub grub to start your evening, you don’t need to look far. As far as location goes, the Adelphi may be a gem, but certainly isn’t hidden as it's right next to the Student Centre at the heart of campus. With a varied food and drinks menu and a large beer garden that can be enjoyed year-round thanks to heated booths, the Adelphi is a Preston staple. The pub even offers a student discount on some drinks – ask at the bar for more info! There’s also a quiz night every Thursday.
Where: Next to the Student Centre on University Square
Pricing: ££
2. Plau Bar/Fino Tapas
If you’re after something a bit different, Plau is the place. Steeped in history, it was originally built in 1663 as a butcher's shop originally before becoming a pub in the late 1700s. There's even a medieval well in the basement bar! Think cosy vibes, cocktails done right, loads of gins to try, plus craft beers. Fino Tapas is upstairs, serving small Spanish dishes - perfect for sharing with friends. It’s chilled during the week but gets buzzing at the weekend – great for a night out that feels a little special.
Where: 115 Friargate, 5 minutes from campus
Pricing: £££
3. Northern Way
If you’re a sports fan, enjoy a game of pool or like a livelier atmosphere, the Northern Way pub should be on your Saturday Night itinerary. This affordable yet modern pub is popular with students. It boasts 12 large indoor and outdoor screens, perfect for viewing the next big Premier League game with friends. There’s a wide variety of ciders, ales and lagers on tap, but save room for their famous £6 cocktail jars.
Where: 79 Friargate, 4 minutes from campus
Pricing: £
4. Chew's Yard
New on the Preston nightlife scene, Chew’s Yard is already becoming one of the city’s most popular spots. From the outside, the converted workshop looks unassuming, but inside there are 5 different food and drink stalls. From cocktails and ciders to fresh charcuterie boards, Chew’s Yard caters to all your post-lecture needs. There are two event rooms that regularly hosts live DJs, comedians and bands, so keep your eyes peeled for the next local gig.
Where: 111 Market Street, 7 minutes from campus
Pricing: £££
5. Kuckoo Cocktail Bar
Renowned for its hard-rock decor, there's nowhere else quite like Kuckoo. The small, dark-lit, leather-seated room gives this unique cocktail bar a VIP feel. Their menu consists of over a dozen cocktails, from classic whiskey lemons to more eclectic creations. Some of my favourites are the 10 Dollar Shake and a cocktail inspired by Mario Kart’s Rainbow Road. All enjoyed to a rock n’ roll soundtrack.
Where: 16-17 Fox Street, 10 minutes from campus
Pricing: ££
