Preston

Preston, located in colourful Northwest England, dates back to the Domesday Book and to 1179. It's strategic location was almost halfway between Glasgow and London. Today, Preston has a broad and varied mix of attractions to suit your needs, your mood and your budget. The 30,000 students at the University of Central Lancashire ensure that the city is buzzing at night with a range of pubs, clubs and entertainment. There is also plenty of year round entertainment such as major sporting events, ballet, drama, and concerts.

The restaurant 'Bistro French Live' was featured in the Guiness Book of Records as having the widest selection of wines and spirits in the country. They also have a liquor dating from the 1700's. It is not a typical 'bistro', as the name suggests, it is more of a cabaret restaurant which specialises in live music and great food. There is live music every night of the week with everything from 70's and Motown, right through to modern day music, such as Steps and Robbie Williams.

A fun way to spend the day for the whole family is a day at Trax Motor Sports. This unique and dynamic 140 acre site is the largest off road facility in the UK with a variety of circuits purpose built for the activities of Quad biking, Motocross, Karting, Supermoto, Rally driving, 4x4 Driving and Paintball. The safety gear and instruction are provided at the facility, and every weekend and on selected weekdays the motocross tracks are available for members who have their own equipment. While it is a little pricey, it is a day you won't soon forget.

You'll also want to stop by the Harris Art Museum. The Harris was build in 1833 to house the Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library. The building is a beautiful Neo-Classical building in the Preston Market Square, and has many features including a cast of the Parthenon Frieze, Preston's Roll of Honour and a Foucault's Pendulum. Collections include everything from fine art and photography to costumes and textiles. Admission is completely free, and you'll want to take advantage of the guided tours of the building.

If you like to shop, the city centre has plenty of choices. Take a walk down any of the quaint side streets situated off Fishergate and Friargate and see the boutiques, antiques and gifts that the city has to offer. There is a huge choice of individual, specialist outlets from clothing to cards and gifts, and plenty of jewellers to choose from.

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