Welcome to Preston’s Wonderful Winckley Square

Welcome to ‘Preston’s Hidden Gem’. Winckley Square is in the city centre, a short stroll from Fishergate. It is unique and one of the finest examples of a Georgian square in the NW with a compelling history.

Here is  a link to our latest newsletter: Winckley Square Times: Issue 34: Spring/ Summer edition 2025 

It contains our spring/summer Guided Walks Programme; the first in a series of articles called ‘Lost Legacy of Winckley Square’ is the Winckley Club; and two further articles on issues close to our hearts – the state of historic buildings in Preston. The first from the Friends of Edith Rigby concentrates on the condition of 28 Winckley Square where Edith once lived and the second ‘Preserving Preston’s Heritage’ takes a broader view of identifying properties across the city which are being neglected or are otherwise at risk.

Do you have friend or relative who loves local history? Wondering what to buy for a Christmas  present? Why not consider a ‘Friend of Winckley Square Gift Voucher’ £5 and £10 vouchers are available that can be used on our guided walks or talks. Contact patricia@winckley.org.uk

Our  Going on a date: City Centre datestone walk  is a lively, fun, interesting activity to do in Preston’s historic centre, for individuals and for families spanning the generations. Here is a link to the Datestone Locations but don’t cheat and download this  before you go on the walk – that would be far too easy! ENJOY. The reprint of this very popular City Centre Walk has been sponsored by LCC. You can pick up a paper copy at the Avenham Pavilion Cafe, Town Hall, Harris Library, Central Methodist Church, Lune Street and some local shops.

The Friends of Winckley Square look forward to seeing you at one of our events. 

Kids and teacher running through Winckley Square in Preston
Local schoolchildren were the first to run through the Square when it was reopened.

Visitor Information

Here you will find important information on how to get here, accessibility and how to hire the Gardens.

Find out more

For all events see 'What's On' & 'Walks and Talks'

Guided Walk

‘Drawing Board Dreams’ and the reinvention of Preston

The walk begins and ends outside the Guild Hall, Lancaster Road Preston Guild Hall , Lancaster Road, Preston, England PR1 1HT

6th April 2025 | 1:00 PM

Find out more
Guided Walk

The Bridges that made Preston Guided walk

The walk will begin at the Old Penwortham Bridge, Broadgate side Broadgate , Winckley Square, Preston, Lancashire PR1 8DX

16th April 2025 | 1:00 PM

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People

Edith Rigby, second from the left, walking on a Pier

Edith Rigby, second from the left, walking on a Pier

Meet some of the former residents: the wealthy lawyers and cotton manufacturers, the sometimes invisible ‘extraordinary women’ and the unsung servants on whom the owners depended.

Minnie as a young woman

Minnie as a young woman

Learn too of scandalous stories that occurred behind closed doors!

Visit our people page

Buildings

The Winckley Club & The Literary and Philosophical Institute of 1846

Buildings

Read the fascinating stories of some of the properties. Buildings designed as homes later transformed into schools educating almost 2,000 pupils in their heyday.

View our historical buildings
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