Preston, a city located on the northern bank of the River Ribble, is a favourite destination for many international students. This city offers quality education and a lot of other experiences to students. Students who come to Preston to live for their study years like to explore their new city. For such students, we will provide some information about the student city life in Preston.
About Preston
Preston is located in the ceremonial county of Lancashire in England (UK). There are evidence of ancient Roman activity in Preston and surrounding areas. During the industrial revolution of the 19th century, Preston witnessed a major transformation. It was transformed from a small market town to a much larger one.
Today, Preston is experiencing growth driven by regeneration projects like the Preston City Deal, which focuses on infrastructure and economic development. The city is also known for its thriving student population.
Preston Geography
A southern border of the city is provided by the River Ribble. A backdrop to Preston to the northeast is formed by the Forest of Bowland. The Fylde (a coastal plain) lies to the west. Preston is near some major UK cities. It is located 43 kilometres northwest of Manchester. Besides, it is 42 kilometres northeast of Liverpool. Furthermore, it is 24 kilometres east of Blackpool, the coastal town.
Population of Preston
In mid-2023, the population of Preston was estimated to be 1,270,162.
Weather in Preston
At the weather station, the absolute high recorded weather in Preston was 38.2°C (100.8°F) during July 2022. During a typical year, the warmest day can reach 27.6°C (81.7°F). Besides, in 5.9 days, it should attain a maximum temperature of 25.1°C (77.2°F) or more. In October 2011, a new record was set for October high temperature of 26.9°C.
The absolute minimum temperature in Preston was recorded in February 1969. It was −13.3°C (8.1°F). In a typical year, the coldest night can be −6.8°C (19.8°F). Besides, 40.2 nights can receive an air frost. In recent years, the lowest temperature was −9.2 C (15.4°F) during December 2010.
In October 2014, Preston was officially declared the wettest city in England and the third wettest in the UK, following Cardiff and Glasgow.
Study in Preston
Why Study in Preston?
Preston provides world-class education to international students. The universities in Preston have highly qualified and experienced professors and lecturers. They teach with a practical approach. Besides, studying in Preston provides international exposure to students.
Top Universities in Preston
The University of Central Lancashire is located in Preston, which is highly regarded. Besides, you find excellent colleges in Preston including Preston College and Cardinal Newman College.
Best Student Accommodation in Preston
Below are the lists of top localities and best student accommodations in Preston.
Top Localities in Preston
The top locations for international students in Preston are:
- City Centre
- Adelphi Street
- Plungington
- Ashton-on-Ribble
- Fishergate
- Avenham
- Penwortham
- Fulwood
Top 10 Accommodations in Preston
Here are the names of the top 10 Preston student accommodation properties.
- iQ Kopa
- The Tramshed
- Urban Head
- Leighton Hall
- Warehouse Apartments
- Jubilee Court
- Foundry Court
- Trinity Student Village
- Walker Street
- Oxheys Court
Jobs in Preston
Students can get part-time jobs in Preston during their studies. Besides, they have a lot of scope here after completing here. Here are some of the popular jobs in Preston:
- Healthcare and Nursing
- Education and Teaching
- Retail and Customer Service
- Manufacturing and Engineering
- Information Technology (IT)
- Logistics and Warehousing
- Hospitality and Tourism
- Public Sector and Administration
Living in Preston
Cost of Living in Preston
Here is the cost of living in Preston for international students.
- Rent: £400-£700 for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on location. But, if you choose to live in a student housing property, you can get accommodation at as low as £75 per week. A room in a private apartment can be rented at £74 per week (the lowest price). You can rent a homestay at only £20 per night.
- Utilities: £150-£200 per month for electricity, heating, and water.
- Groceries: £150-£250 per month for an individual.
- Transportation: £60-£80 for a monthly bus pass.
- Dining Out: £10-£15 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant.
Travelling in Preston
Preston has an extensive bus service operated by Stagecoach. This service can be used to travel inside Preston. For visiting cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and London, you can use train services at Preston Railway Station. Taxis and ride-sharing are also available in Preston. There are also cycling routes in Preston.
Best Clubs in Preston
You would also like to enjoy visiting clubs during your stay in Preston. Here is the list of the best clubs in Preston.
- The Warehouse
- Popworld – Preston
- Switch Nightclub
- Baluga Bar & Club
- Blitz Venue & Nightclub
- Revolution Preston
Best Restaurants in Preston
Preston also has some good restaurants that you would like to visit during your stay in this city. Here are some of the best restaurants in Preston.
- The Fig Tree
- Oakfield Restaurant
- Mei Mei’s Street Kitchen
- Viva Vegan
- Tasty Bites
- The Olive Press
- Humble Pie
- Café Ambio
Student Apps
Some apps can help students in Preston in some aspects. Preston College app can be found on the App Store and Google Play. The University Living app is good for booking student accommodation in Preston.
Tourist Attractions in Preston
Some tourist attractions in Preston are:
- Avenham and Miller Parks
- Preston Guild Hall
- Museum of Lancashire
- Winckley Square
- St. Walburge’s Church
- Ribble Steam Railway
- The Harris Museum and Art Gallery
- Broughton Hall
- The Preston Market
- Lancashire Infantry Museum
These attractions offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty for visitors to enjoy. You can visit these places during your years of study in Preston.
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