Great places to eat and drink outdoors in Preston City Centre
28 July 2023
Get yourself down to some great al fresco drink and dine spots this summer.
Looking for outside options to eat and drink this season? From urban chic and creative offbeat spaces to relaxing traditional British beer gardens, the city centre is full of outdoor drink and dining areas. So whether you're after a memorable meal in the sun or just wanting to kickback with a drink and immerse yourself in sweet summer vibes, the city centre has it covered.
Lost Bar and Pizzeria
Location - Market Street West
Discover the perfect setting for the summer months at Lost Bar and Pizzeria. Thanks to their beautiful cobbled courtyard space coupled with a creative arts and culture calendar, the venue makes a great outdoor space for enjoying summer events and relaxing with a drink or bite to eat in a fresh unique urban setting.
Add to this their delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas, handcrafted cocktails, craft beers and natural wines, and you know you're on for a memorable experience, which will leave you wanting a return visit.
Cafe Bar
Location - Winckley Street
Tucked away in its own striking Latin European style courtyard, the Cafe Bar makes the perfect sun trap. Complete with brightly coloured furniture, a plethora of plants and charming mosaic style flooring, you'll feel like you've been whisked away to the Mediterranean.
The restaurant's menu boasts authentic and mouth-watering tapas dishes, as well as Italian and Greek-style mains. There's also a great selection of wines and drinks to complete the evening.
Bistro Pierre
Location - Fishergate
For a touch of French class, dine in style on an elegant raised terrace outside the beautifully restored 19th century Baptist church, which has stood in the city centre for 160 years. Watch the world go by and enjoy freshly prepared French food, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Whether you're after a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner, Bistrot Pierre is perfect for every occasion.
Forum
Location - Winckley Street
Located down the cobbled Winckley Street, near the picturesque Winckley Square, Forum makes the perfect place to chill and soak up some sun on one of Preston's most scenic streets.
Aside from their expertly mixed cocktails and varied array of beverages and wines, the lounge bar's menu is suited for anything from light brunches and lunches to evening meals and sharing plates. Their unique choice of dishes and vegetarian options are enough to keep all diners satisfied; created with quality ingredients and inspired by global dishes.
The Rabbit Hole
Location - Lune Street
Hidden away at the rear of the infamous Corn Exchange building, accessible via 1842 Restaurant and Bar, you'll discover the Rabbit Hole. With over 100 gins to choose from, a range of seating options, including booths for hire, the Alice in Wonderland Themed Gin Garden makes a great choice for capturing the Preston sun in the height of summer.
Orchard Bar
Location - Preston Markets
Located in a cosy corner of Preston Market Hall, The Orchard Bar offers a unique outdoor seating space under the picturesque Victorian canopy.
The craft beer bar with 10 keg lines, three cask beers and an excellent selection of wines, prosecco, cider and spirits was listed in the top 15 pubs for a pint in Preston - as recommended by the CAMRA good beer guide 2022.
With regular live music taking place on Saturday evenings and a typical, welcoming, northern atmosphere, this hidden gem is a must visit.
Hartley's Wine Bar
Location - Mount Street
Tucked away down one of the city centres side streets, head over to Hartley's to soak up some rays in either their front balcony area or rear beer garden - decorated with the portraits of legendary musicians.
Renowned for their delicious burgers, Hartleys also serve an exciting range of fresh and interesting bites to eat. All this tasty food can be washed down with the bar's excellent selection of craft beers, cocktails, wines, and spirits.
Continental
Location - South Meadow Lane
The Continental is picturesquely placed by the banks of the River Ribble, on the edge of Preston's Avenham and Miller Parks and along the Guild Wheel. This combined with it's spacious green beer garden and great atmosphere has made it a staple for summer hangouts.
Offering restaurant quality food in a down-to-earth environment, The Continental's seasonally changing menu provides a mouth-watering choice of freshly prepared dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
When it comes to drinks, The Continental is renowned for its fantastic range of changing ales, house beers, artisan ciders and award-winning wines. And, as for entertainment, the venue has it sussed with a packed arts and culture programme offering up something for everyone.
Discover other places to eat and drink
For ideas on other great places to eat and drink see our food and drink section.
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Map address for city centre outdoor eat and drink places
Lost Bar and Pizzeria, 133 Market Street West, Preston, PR1 2HB
The Café Bar, 11B Winckley Street, Preston, PR1 2AAV
Bistrot Pierre, The Church, 83B Fishergate, Preston, PR1 2NJ
Forum Bar and Kitchen, 16-17 Winckley Street, Preston, PR1 2AA
The Rabbit Hole, 1842 Restaurant and Bar, The Corn Exchange, Lune Street, Preston, PR1 2NN
The Orchard Craft Beer Bar, Unit C, Market Hall, Earl Street, Preston, PR1 2LA
Hartleys Wine Bar, 7 Mount Street, Preston, PR1 8BS
The Continental, South Meadow Lane, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 8JP