Preston Cenotaph: A Reverent Tribute in the Heart of Preston
A dignified and beautifully restored memorial in Preston’s Central Park, honoring the city’s fallen soldiers with solemnity and grace.
The Preston Cenotaph, located at Preston Flag Market in Central Park, is a solemn war memorial honoring the men and women of Preston who served and sacrificed in the World Wars and later conflicts. Designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott and unveiled in 1926, this Grade I listed monument serves as a focal point for remembrance ceremonies, especially on Remembrance Day, and is admired for its dignified architecture and seasonal illuminations.
A brief summary to Preston Cenotaph
- Preston Flag Market, 4 Cheapside, Preston, PR1 2AP, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light to photograph the Cenotaph.
- Attend the Remembrance Day parade to experience the community’s moving tribute.
- Maintain a respectful and solemn attitude while at the memorial.
- Visit during the Christmas season to see the Cenotaph beautifully illuminated.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services to Preston city center; from there, the Cenotaph is a short 10-minute walk through Central Park. Bus routes 1, 2, and 3 serve the area frequently, with fares around £2-£4. Service runs approximately every 15 minutes during the day.
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Train
Arrive at Preston Railway Station, which is about 1.5 km from the Cenotaph. From the station, a 20-minute walk through the city center or a quick taxi ride (about £5) will bring you to Central Park.
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Car
Driving to the Cenotaph is possible with parking available in nearby city center car parks. Expect a 5-10 minute walk from parking areas. Parking fees vary between £1.50 and £3 per hour. Note that some streets around Central Park may have restricted access or limited spaces.
Preston Cenotaph location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Preston Cenotaph
A Monument of Enduring Remembrance
The Preston Cenotaph stands prominently in Central Park, Preston, as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and collective memory. Designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, one of the foremost architects of his generation, it was unveiled in 1926 to honor the fallen soldiers from Preston who gave their lives during the First World War. The memorial’s classical design marked Scott’s earliest foray into this style, setting a precedent for memorial architecture in the region.Architectural and Artistic Significance
Constructed primarily from Portland stone, the Cenotaph features a tall, dignified shaft topped by a tomb chest, with minimal ornamentation save for suspended laurel wreaths sculpted by Henry Alfred Pegram. Pegram’s sculptural work adds a poignant artistic layer, reflecting the solemnity and reverence of the site. The memorial’s Grade I listing underscores its architectural and historic importance, preserving it as a heritage landmark in Preston.Commemorative Role and Community Connection
The Cenotaph is the heart of Preston’s remembrance culture, hosting annual ceremonies such as the Remembrance Day parade. These events draw the community together in a shared act of honoring the fallen, with wreath-laying and moments of silence that reinforce the memorial’s role as a place of reflection and respect. The names of local soldiers who died in the Great War, World War II, and the Korean War are inscribed, personalizing the tribute and connecting visitors to the human stories behind the monument.Seasonal Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Beyond its solemn function, the Cenotaph is noted for its aesthetic appeal, particularly during the Christmas season when it is beautifully illuminated. This seasonal lighting adds a contemplative yet festive glow, blending remembrance with community spirit. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, enhancing the monument’s visual impact amid the tranquil surroundings of Central Park.Historical Context and Legacy
The Preston Cenotaph was unveiled by Admiral the Earl Jellicoe before a crowd of approximately 40,000 people, marking a significant moment in the city’s post-war history. Its presence continues to remind visitors of the profound costs of conflict and the enduring importance of remembrance. The memorial also stands as a testament to Preston’s local heritage and the sacrifices made by its citizens across multiple conflicts.Preservation and Respect
Recent restoration efforts have ensured the Cenotaph remains a well-maintained and dignified site. Visitors are encouraged to approach with respect, recognizing the memorial’s sacred purpose. While the surrounding area benefits from ongoing care, the Cenotaph itself remains a pristine focal point for those wishing to pay tribute or reflect quietly on history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Preston Cenotaph
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A dignified and beautifully restored memorial in Preston’s Central Park, honoring the city’s fallen soldiers with solemnity and grace.
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Chorley's Flying Arches
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Rivington Pike
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Fairy Glen
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Wayoh Reservoir
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Turton Tower
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Ripley's Believe It Or Not, Blackpool
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South Pier Blackpool
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The Beautiful Roundabout
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The Blackpool Opera House
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Madame Tussauds Blackpool
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SEA LIFE Blackpool
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Central Pier
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Discover the excitement of Central Pier in Blackpool, featuring thrilling rides, live entertainment, and stunning sea views for an unforgettable day out.
Unmissable attractions to see
St George's Shopping Centre
0.2 km
A vibrant and accessible shopping hub in Preston, blending high street brands, independent stores, and family-friendly amenities.
Avenham and Miller Park
0.9 km
Discover Preston’s Victorian riverside gem with tranquil gardens, scenic walks, and vibrant community charm along the River Ribble.
Lancashire Infantry Museum
2.3 km
Explore five centuries of Lancashire military heritage in one of England's largest regimental collections.
Haslam Park
2.7 km
Victorian parkland where woodland serenity meets family fun along Preston's waterways.
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
3.6 km
Step back in time on a heritage steam train through Preston’s historic docklands, surrounded by vintage locomotives and riverside views.
Lostock Hall Henge
3.7 km
Explore the tranquil ancient earthworks of Lostock Hall Henge, a prehistoric ceremonial site nestled in Preston's peaceful landscape.
Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary
4.1 km
Experience majestic birds of prey up close in a tranquil woodland sanctuary near Preston, with daily flying displays and conservation education.
Brockholes
4.9 km
Explore Brockholes, Lancashire’s award-winning floating nature reserve blending innovation, wildlife, and family fun in a stunning riverside setting.
Viking Woodland
5.1 km
Discover the peaceful trails and rich Viking heritage of Preston’s serene Viking Woodland, a natural haven for wildlife and relaxation.
Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank
5.2 km
Explore the iconic Centurion Tank monument in Leyland, a powerful symbol of British military engineering and industrial heritage.
Cuerden Valley Park
6.7 km
Explore 650 acres of woodlands, meadows, and heritage gardens in this sustainable Lancashire country park, open year-round for all ages.
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
7.3 km
Explore Britain’s rich commercial vehicle heritage in Leyland’s historic museum, from vintage trucks to the iconic Pope mobile.
Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve
7.5 km
A tranquil wetland oasis in Preston, blending rich industrial heritage with vibrant wildlife and accessible nature trails.
Samlesbury Hall
8.4 km
Explore 700 years of Tudor history and heritage at Samlesbury Hall, a captivating medieval manor near Preston with timeless charm.
Worden Park
8.4 km
Historic estate grounds transformed into a vast family-friendly park with gardens, maze, playground, and miniature railway in Leyland.
Essential places to dine
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
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A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
Aven Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
The Italian Orchard
5.8 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
The Broughton Inn
5.9 km
Historic gastropub in Broughton offering classic British dishes and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere just north of Preston.
Walled Garden Restaurant
8.3 km
A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
The Pickled Goose
8.3 km
A lively British pub and restaurant in Barton, Preston, blending countryside charm with modern dining and a vibrant social bar.
Charnock Farm Restaurant
8.6 km
Rustic country dining, comfortable motel stays, and charming event spaces nestled in the tranquil Lancashire countryside.
Lang's Restaurant
8.6 km
Experience contemporary English and international cuisine in a stylish Preston setting with exceptional wines and warm hospitality.
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
9.3 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
Angels Restaurant
11.9 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Encore Restaurant
12.6 km
Modern British cuisine and vibrant cocktails meet stylish celebrations in the heart of Chorley’s Brewers Print Building.
Rigby's Farmhouse
14.0 km
Cozy farmhouse dining in Preston serving hearty British classics and an exceptional gin selection for family and friends.
The Bonny Inn
14.3 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
The Farmers Arms Great Eccleston
15.4 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub offering fresh seafood, hearty British classics, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Eccleston.
Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
16.2 km
Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KENJI Preston
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Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
The Mill Shop
4.4 km
A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
Mood Gifts & Home
6.6 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
11.7 km
Explore Crissys Gifts For All Occasions in Blackburn for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
The Secret Closet
12.0 km
Curated Italian, Danish & Portuguese fashion with a commitment to responsible, sustainable retail.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
13.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in the historic Bygone Times at Eccleston, where every piece tells a story of style and sustainability.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
13.4 km
Discover premium British country wear and footwear at Rufford's, your stylish gateway to authentic country living near Preston.
Freckle Boutique
13.9 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion and personalized service at Freckle Boutique, a charming shopping gem in Heskin, Chorley.
Cedar Farm
16.1 km
Discover Cedar Farm: Lancashire’s charming blend of boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and family-friendly farm fun in a scenic rural setting.
The Hive
16.4 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at The Hive, Garstang’s beloved local gift shop nestled in a charming historic setting.
Dream
16.5 km
Distinctive gifts in the heart of Lancashire's historic market town.
La Shack Costume Fashion Jewellery and Gifts
19.6 km
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THE FOSSIL STORE
20.0 km
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Quirky Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Guild Ale House
0.1 km
Preston’s first micro pub, Guild Ale House serves exceptional local ales in a cozy, lively setting with a welcoming community vibe.
Winedown
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Discover Winedown, Preston’s cozy underground wine bar with exceptional wines, artisan cheese boards, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Black Horse
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Historic Black Horse Pub in Preston offers award-winning real ales, classic charm, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Baluga Bar & Club
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Experience Preston's vibrant nightlife at Baluga Bar & Club, where stylish drinks meet a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Revolution Preston
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A vibrant four-level cocktail bar and restaurant in Preston city centre, perfect for dining, cocktails, and late-night partying.
Hogarths
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Historic Victorian gin palace in Preston city centre, famed for its vast gin selection, lively sports atmosphere, and vibrant community spirit.
Plug & Taps
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Blitz Venue & Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Preston’s vibrant late-night scene with live DJs, affordable drinks, and an energetic club atmosphere at Blitz Venue & Nightclub.
FORUM BAR & KITCHEN
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A stylish bar and kitchen in Preston blending Mediterranean flavors, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality in a vibrant city-center setting.
The Winter Lodge
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A stylish, modern bar in Preston’s city centre, known for festive outdoor huts and a lively, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Hartleys Wine Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant and cosy wine bar in Preston city centre, perfect for unwinding with quality drinks and lively company.
Plau Gin & Beer House
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A vibrant multi-venue bar in Preston offering craft beers, cocktails, Spanish tapas, and a unique traditional atmosphere.
Ships and Giggles
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A lively and affordable pub in Preston offering great drinks, casual dining, and a uniquely charming nightlife experience.
No. 16 On The Hill
2.2 km
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The Plough Grimsargh
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A friendly village pub in Grimsargh serving classic British dishes, excellent beers, and hosting lively community events in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Switch Nightclub
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Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Preston
0.2 km
Popworld Preston: Where cheesy pop tunes meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable party vibes in the heart of the city.
The Warehouse
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Park Hall Nightclub
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Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
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Banff
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Club underground
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Funny Girls
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The Tache Rock Club
24.2 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Pure Nightclub
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Hush Nightclub
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Trilogy Nightclub
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Popworld - Blackpool
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Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
Sanuk Nightclub
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Ibiza Nightclub
24.3 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Reflective
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
