A Lancashire spot has been named one of the most underrated county towns in England, in a new list by The Telegraph.
Introducing the list, it told readers: “Forget Oxford and Cambridge, these lesser-known counterparts have plenty of attractions – and far fewer tourists”.
The newspaper added: “In history, the county town tended to be wherever the monarch, or his or her representative, wanted it to be.
“Usually, it was either the biggest or most glamorous town in the county.
“But in the 19th century, when local government grew more organised, the most important consideration became accessibility, with the result that some most unlikely places have become county towns.
“Durham and Winchester may have their cathedrals, Oxford and Cambridge their colleges, Chester and Shrewsbury their medieval streets, but England’s less showy county towns have their attractions too (in addition to the cachet of being the seat of power).”
Preston, which is a city, features on the publication’s underrated county towns list – here’s what was said about it.
What is a county town?
Cambridge Dictionary explains what a county town is.
It says a county town is “the most important town or city in a county, especially the one where the local government is based:
“Cambridge is the county town of Cambridgeshire.”
Why Preston is an underrated county town of England
The Telegraph said: “For anyone interested in industrial history, Lancashire’s county town is a must, for Preston was the first of Lancashire’s pioneering cotton towns, a legacy that lives on in its many historic mills and museums.
“The house where Richard Arkwright invented the cotton spinning machine that transformed the industry in 1769 still stands, and Preston’s elegant Georgian quarter, Winckley Square, boasts a number of fine homes built for cotton merchants.
“The town centre has some impressive public buildings, including one of Lancashire’s best museums and art galleries, the Harris.
“Preston is also proud of its numerous parks beside the River Ribble and England’s highest church spire, rising 309ft above St Walburge’s Church.”
What is Preston famous for?
Whether you visit Preston regularly or have never been, you might wonder if it’s famous for anything in particular.
Visit Lancashire said: “Nestled in the heart of Lancashire, Preston is built on a rich history.
“This proud city is most famous for its Guild celebrations every 20 years, but the fun doesn’t stop there, Preston comes to life with a variety of events throughout the year.”
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In recent years, Preston has been put on the map with the likes of Spud Bros’ viral food truck, gaining a huge following on social media.
The small business is known for selling jacket potatoes with various toppings and is recognised across the UK thanks to its success and engagement from the public on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.
The Telegraph's list of England's most underrated county towns also includes Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, Chelmsford in Essex and Morpeth in Northumberland, and more.
What’s your favourite thing about Preston? Let us know in the comments.
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