Study in Preston

Preston sits on the north bank of the River Ribble in Lancashire, roughly midway between Manchester and Liverpool, around 27 miles from each. It was a market town for centuries before becoming a major textile manufacturing centre during the Industrial Revolution, and was formally granted city status in 2002. StudyUKToday works with one real university here.

What Preston Is Actually Like

Preston has been a market town since at least 1179, when it was granted a Guild Merchant charter, a tradition still marked today by the Preston Guild, celebrated roughly every 20 years. St Walburge’s Church has the tallest church spire in England outside the country’s cathedrals, and the Harris Museum and Miller Arcade are among the city’s notable Victorian-era landmarks, reflecting the wealth Preston built during its 19th-century boom as a major textile manufacturing town.

Like many Lancashire mill towns, Preston went through a real economic decline after textile manufacturing collapsed in the mid-20th century, and has since diversified, with major employers now including BAE Systems’ aerospace and defence operations alongside services and education. Avenham Park, running down to the river, is a genuine green space at the heart of the city. Getting around is straightforward via Preston railway station and strong motorway links via the M6, M55 and M61.

Studying in Preston

Preston is home to the University of Lancashire, the one real university StudyUKToday works with here, listed in the “Universities in Preston” section below, with its main campus in the city centre.

Preston’s cost of living is generally more affordable than many larger North West cities, so check current figures directly with your university’s accommodation office.

How StudyUKToday Helps

Whichever course you’re aiming for at the University of Lancashire in Preston, our services stay the same: course selection, university matching, document review, application support, and offer acceptance guidance, working toward your UK university application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do students choose Preston?

An established university, a genuinely central North West location between Manchester and Liverpool, and generally more affordable living costs than either of those larger cities.

Is Preston affordable for international students?

Generally more affordable than larger North West cities like Manchester or Liverpool. Confirm current figures with your university’s accommodation office.

What is Preston known for?

Its history as an Industrial Revolution textile town, being granted city status in 2002, and the centuries-old Preston Guild tradition.

How many universities are there in Preston?

StudyUKToday works with one real university in Preston, the University of Lancashire, listed in the “Universities in Preston” section on this page.