Designed by Edward Milner, the Avenham Park and Miller Park are the finest examples of Victorian Parks. Listed as an English Heritage Grade II garden, the duo attracts thousands of tourists every year. Avenham and Miller Park features splendid Japanese Gardens, open lawns and various structures including The Belvedere pavilion, a cafe, and a small area designated for different events like concerts held throughout the year. Community events like Mela and Easter Monday are too held here.
Church of St. Walburge is an active Roman Catholic church and is a Grade I listed building marked by the English Heritage. Built in the 19th Century in a Gothic Revival style, the most prominent feature of this church is its 94 meter (309 feet) spire. The church is known for its spectacular architectural quality derived from the amalgamation of traditional features in creative and inventive ways. The rose window, New Red Sandstone facade, open wooden roof, wooden triptych, a crucifix decorated with the shield of Preston and St. Ignatius of Loyola's representation in the sanctuary are some of the impressive features of this church.
Established in 1893, this historic building has been a pride of the local community and upheld local culture. A leading museum in Lancashire, Harris Museum has the largest gallery space and houses rare collections which record the history of the region. The impressive collection expands over 70,000 objects including historical artifacts, fine art paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, contemporary art pieces, textiles, ceramics and more. Doubling up as a contemporary art venue, the museum is host to a number of art exhibitions throughout the year and has art galleries showcasing work of local artists. Besides various amusing artifacts, the 13,500 year old 'Poulton Elk' is a must see! Also, look out for Mrs French's 2700 scent bottles and the Egyptian Balcony which adorns murals done by John Somerscales between 1909 to 1913.
More than just your regular museum, Ribble Steam Railway is a unique rail museum and a perfect family-destination for a day of fun train rides and more. Opened to public in 2005, the museum houses historic standard gauge preserved steam locomotives, rail exhibits and gives visitors a chance to ride along the 2.4-kilometer (1.5-mile) line in a steam locomotive. They have various train tour timings and many family and school tour packages, which include a guided tour of the museum, workshop and a train ride. Party/Gala train rides are also available wherein you can reserve a coach and host your own private party or celebrations like birthdays, special events etc. For some days open times may vary on account of various events held throughout the year.
A premier concert venue, located in the heart of Preston, 53 Degrees is a life of music in the city. The dynamic venue is not only host to some of the biggest music performances in Lancashire, it's also features comedy acts, club-nights and more. It's divided in two distinct venues, with a 1500 capacity on the ground floor and a 400 capacity club upstairs. Voted as the 'Best Campus Venue' at Live UK Music Awards 2010 & 2011, the venue is a favorite with everyone from locals to students of University of Central Lancashire and tourists too. The venue hosts club-nights where top DJs spin the nastiest beats, from R&B to hardcore and house music to techno. The bar area serves you all the pitchers and cocktails you need to cool-out to after rocking out to smashing music numbers. A groovy night is guaranteed!
Samlesbury Hall is a majestic manor house, dating back to the 14th Century. Born out of the imagination of Gilbert de Southworth, this historic house welcomes visitors who wish to learn about its legacy and history. It also doubles up as an event space for concerts, exhibitions, functions, weddings, receptions and theatrical acts.
When one mentions the city of Liverpool, The Beatles is one of the first things to crop up in one's mind. Beatles Fab Four Taxi Tour provides one with a tour of the places in Liverpool which are of significance, as far as The Beatles are concerned. Upto five people can be accommodated in their private cab, which will pick you up from your hotel. Tour packages range from Epstein, a two hour quickie, to Starr, a five hour extravaganza. On these tours, one can expect to be taken to places such as the homes of the four Beatles, Strawberry Field, Penny Lane, Dovedale Tower, Matthew Street and St. Peters Church.
The congregation of the Rivington Unitarian Chapel dates back to 1662, when Reverend Samuel Newton was ejected from the Rivington Church. However, the chapel was only built in 1703 with the motto "Here let no man a stranger be". This plain looking chapel is largely built from gritstones with a small bell cote on the west gable. The chapels original gates and box pews have survived and memorials have been put up in honor of Reverend Samuel Newton and the Lord of Willoughby. The church is still active and services are held on every first and third Sunday at 2:15p. Its historical significance in the struggle of the nonconformists draws visitors to this warm and peaceful chapel.
Our Lady Star of the Sea rests in the district of Seaforth in Merseyside, England. This lovely Roman Catholic church was founded in 1884 and the worshipers had their first gatherings in a stable to offer their prayers. This shrine was opened in 1901 and was consecrated in 1906. Designed by Sinnott and Powell, this wonderful church is listed as Grade II in the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest by English Heritage.
St Thomas' Church started out as a humble and simple structure built from stone carted by farmers from the quarries at Aughton. Before its completion in 1841, members of the congregation would have to walk a distance of close to 6 miles for Sunday services. This much-loved church was eventually largely rebuilt, giving its devoted congregation a more refined place of worship. This beautifully adorned church is a testament to the will and determination of the congregation that led to its creation. Regular services are held along with a number of special services and events aimed to foster and strengthen community spirit.
Holy Trinity Church is an active Anglican church in the beautiful village of Tarleton. This stunning building was built in 1886 as a replacement of St Mary's Church, which was considered not big enough to accommodate the local population. The extensive churchyard consists of war graves of soldiers and airman fought in the World War I and II.
St Paul's Church was originally established as a chapel in 1776, dedicated to St Peter and St Paul. The present building of St Paul's Church, Skelmersdale, was built in 1903 when the original chapel suffered damage due to coal miming subsidence. Although simple, the church building still maintains an air of magnificence with its high ceilings, graceful arches and sparkling stained glass windows. Although over 100 years old, the church is very much in touch with more modern practices, and supports a number of child and youth oriented groups. In line with their motto "come as you are", St. Paul's welcomes all with open arms and genuine acceptance.