Preston is a vibrant city in Lancashire with a historic past, an impressive architecture and a great selection of modern amenities. It's also a great place for a first date, with plenty of options for entertainment, activities and cultural exploration.
1. Preston parks and places for a walk on a first date
Preston's parks and green spaces provide plenty of opportunity for romantic strolls and scenic views. Avenham Park is ideal for a pleasant walk and offers plenty of photo-worthy views of the River Ribble; the park is also home to the Victorian Pavilion Café, where you can enjoy coffee and cakes at the end of your stroll. Alternatively, descend into the depths of Brockholes Nature Reserve for plenty of walking trails, bird-spotting and picturesque views of the lakes and ponds.
2. Places for a coffee date in Preston
For an informal coffee date, visit one of the many independent coffee shops in Preston. The Priory Coffee House & Bar is a popular choice, offering an extensive selection of coffees, teas, cakes and snacks. You can also browse the shelves of vintage books in their upstairs area, browse the range of art prints and sit outside in the quiet courtyard. If you're looking for something a bit livelier, head to the Appetite Café, a daytime hotspot with a warm and friendly atmosphere and an abundance of coffee, healthy snacks and tasty vegan treats.
3. Preston galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Explore the world of science and natural history at the Harris Museum & Art Gallery. Here, you can wander through the galleries and get lost in the array of artefacts, artwork and fascinating interactive exhibits. There are also regular exhibitions, talks and activities to enjoy. If you're searching for a quirky first date experience, pay a visit to the Preston Guild Hall, a grand Tudor Gothic building that houses an array of art exhibitions, shows and plays.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Preston
For a night of fun and entertainment, Preston has plenty of live music venues and comedy clubs to keep you entertained. The Continental is a versatile venue offering a rotating programme of gigs, comedy nights and open mic sessions, and with an intimate atmosphere, it's the perfect place for an intimate date. Or, for a lively night of music, head to 53 Degrees, a popular venue and student union that plays host to a range of live acts and DJ sets.
5. Preston pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Preston has a great selection of pubs, bars and restaurants to explore. The Guild Ale House is a bar specialising in real ales, craft beers and artisan cocktails, along with a great selection of wines and spirits. For a relaxed dinner date, visit The Hogshead, a popular gastropub that serves a variety of pub classics and modern dishes. Or, enjoy some classic Italian cuisine at La Taglialatella, a cosy Italian eatery with a wide selection of pizzas, pastas and traditional dishes.
6. Other date ideas to try in Preston
If you're looking for something a bit different, why not take a trip to the Action Adventure Park? Here, you can scale walls, zip down zip lines and challenge each other to a laser combat game. Alternatively, experience the thrill of simulation racing at Preston's Racing Line, an indoor race centre that's equipped with multiple tracks and a range of Formula 1 style cars. Or, if you're both feeling competitive, head to Tenpin Bowling, an arcade and bowling alley with a range of facilities such as pool tables and a bar.
