Grade I Listed Buildings in Preston, Lancashire

Preston is a Lancashire with a rich history, evident if you stroll around the city and admire the examples of different architectural styles. Many buildings are important landmarks due to their design, history, and local significance. Of all the buildings in Preston, approximately 340 are on the National Heritage List for England. However, there are only three Grade I listed buildings in Preston. Here is a brief overview of the Grade I listed buildings in Preston, Lancashire, and their history.

Grade I Listed Buildings in Preston

Church of St. Walburge: The Oldest of the Three Grade I Listed Buildings in Preston

The Church of St. Walburge is one of the Grade I listed buildings in Preston, Lancashire, and it was completed in 1854. Sitting in the district of Ashton-on-Ribble, this church is famous for its impressive spire that dominates the city skyline. Famous architect Joseph Hansom designed the church. The church is a dedication to St. Walburge, an 8th century. The church’s interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with a high ceiling, beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate wood carvings. It is a must-visit attraction for those interested in history and architecture. Image credit: St Walburge’s Church, Preston by Alexander P Kapp, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Harris Library, Museum, and Art Gallery

The Harris Library, Museum, and Art Gallery is one of Preston’s best things to do and one of the city’s most significant landmarks. It is in the heart of the city, and is a hub for literature, art, and history. The Harris Museum is one of the oldest in the country, founded in 1877. It boasts a collection of over 120,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glass, and furniture. The library has a collection of over 200,000 books, and the art gallery features various exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing both local and international artists’ work. The building is an architectural masterpiece, with a stunning Victorian facade and a modern extension that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Image credit: Dave Wilson, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped)

War Memorial Cenotaph

Giles Gilbert Scott designed the War Memorial Cenotaph in Preston. The Portland stone structure, also known as the Preston Cenotaph, was unveiled in 1926 and was originally to commemorate soldiers who perished in World War I. It now also commemorates soldiers from World War II. It is a tapering obelisk measuring 70 feet and features inscriptions and a mourning woman holding two wreaths. Due to its height and meaning, it is one of the most notable historic structures in Preston. Image credit: Liz Flynn

If you visit the area to see some of the Grade I Listed Buildings in Preston, you might want to stay in one of the budget hotels in Preston. You might also like to explore the city a little further and enjoy other things to do in Preston. Furthermore, you will probably want to eat out. You should read our guides about the local restaurants, including some of the best Chinese, Indian, and Italian establishments. There are also vegetarian restaurants for those who eat a plant-based diet.

Have you visited any of the historic buildings in Preston? Let us know about your experiences.