(and our Porto and our Prague and our Palma too…)
The continent may seem to be slipping further and further away from our holiday-ing grasp but Preston’s slow burning café culture has truly come into its own; and with the last 12 month’s restrictions forcing us into all-weather alfresco, the time has finally come to reap the summertime rewards.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lunch spot or somewhere to sip cocktails late into the balmy evenings the city has you covered;
Winckley Street
The cobbles of Winckley Street have come alive in recent weeks with the sunshine bringing a distinctly european air to one of Preston’s prettiest pavements. Pick up a seasonal Secret Garden bouquet and a double espresso from Cedarwood en-route to the square (bike, wicker basket and french novel optional), or stay awhile with an elegant cocktail at Lonely People, a craft pilsner at Winckley Street Ale House or a tall glass of bubbly at Forum.
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We recommend; Winckley Street Ale House bar snacks 👌
Wine Down
It doesn’t get more continental than wine and cheese, and nobody does it better than WineDown. The vaults of the best basement in town may still be under lock and key but Dougie is bringing the best of the Old World to the doorsteps of Preston – and we hear ordering a bottle or two might be the best way to get an invite to the exclusive reopening 😉
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We recommend; setting a brief and a budget and letting Dougie do his thing!
Baker Street Cakes
A little out of the way of our usual city-centre recommendations, Baker Street Cakes’ Fulwood boutique comes highly recommended (custard filled cupcake anyone?). With pastel-perfect macarons, vibrant patisserie and fresh viennoiserie, prepare to settle into the haute couture surroundings for a Parisian treat that’s almost too pretty to eat.
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We recommend; Passionfruit macaron & an iced latte
Market Street
The team behind everyone’s favourite gin house have done it again with Market Street Social; commandeering the hidden courtyard behind Plau this tucked away gem is just the tonic for the world-weary and holiday deprived! Open every weekend this summer just close your eyes and imagine you’re on a mediterranean terrace far far away…
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We recommend; Social Sundays to stave off the scaries
Pintxos
A brand new addition to the city’s culinary line-up, Pintxos will be offering authentic San Sebastian nibbles, tapas and bites with no wait time and no compromise on flavour. If you’re the sort of person who can never make up your mind (or just gets a little bit snacky between drinks…) this laid back slice of Basque culture is a match made in holiday-ing heaven.
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We recommend; Keeping your eyes peeled for the opening…