Things to do in Preston in January

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Overview

January is a less popular time to visit Preston. The weather is usually cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 35—42°F (2—6°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Preston during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a day trip to the nearby Forest of Bowland for a winter adventure, join a guided tour of Preston's historic landmarks, visit the Harris Museum and Art Gallery for a cultural experience, and more!

Preston has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your January trip to Preston. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to January. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Preston in January. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout January, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Preston in January

Top experiences in January
Take a day trip to the nearby Forest of Bowland for a winter adventure
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and venture into the tranquil beauty of the Forest of Bowland, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In January, the forest is transformed into a winter wonderland, offering breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Embracing the serenity of the forest provides a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, allowing you to connect with nature and appreciate the natural beauty of the Lancashire countryside.
Join a guided tour of Preston's historic landmarks
Preston is steeped in history, and January is an ideal time to discover the city's iconic landmarks and heritage sites. Joining a guided tour allows you to gain a deeper understanding of Preston's past, as knowledgeable guides lead you through the streets and share fascinating stories and insights. From medieval architecture to Victorian landmarks, the city's historic sites offer a glimpse into its rich and diverse history, making for a captivating and informative experience.
Visit the Harris Museum and Art Gallery for a cultural experience
The Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, making it a must-visit destination in January. Explore the museum's extensive collection of artworks, artifacts, and exhibitions, which offer insight into the rich heritage of Lancashire and beyond. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, the Harris Museum provides a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Sample traditional Lancashire hotpot at a local pub
January is the perfect time to indulge in hearty and comforting dishes, and Lancashire hotpot is a local specialty not to be missed. Head to a traditional pub in Preston to savor this delicious dish, which typically consists of lamb or beef, onions, and potatoes slow-cooked to perfection. The cozy ambiance of a local pub adds to the experience, allowing you to warm up and enjoy a taste of authentic Lancashire cuisine.
Explore the Winter Gardens in Avenham Park
Avenham Park's Winter Gardens is a stunning display of seasonal flowers and plants that come to life in January. The tranquil setting of the park provides a peaceful escape from the winter chill, and the Winter Gardens offer a burst of color and fragrance. Strolling through the gardens allows you to appreciate the beauty of nature even in the colder months, making it a unique and refreshing experience in Preston.
Browse the stalls at the Preston Farmers' Market for seasonal produce
January is a great time to explore the Preston Farmers' Market and discover an array of fresh, locally sourced produce. From root vegetables and winter greens to artisanal cheeses and homemade preserves, the market offers a diverse selection of seasonal goods. Engaging with local farmers and producers provides a unique opportunity to support the community and sample the best of Lancashire's culinary offerings.
Take a winter walk along the River Ribble
The River Ribble offers picturesque views and serene surroundings, making it the perfect setting for a winter walk in January. The crisp air and peaceful atmosphere create a calming and rejuvenating experience as you meander along the riverbanks. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike, the River Ribble provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor exploration during the winter months.
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Holidays in Preston in January
January
  • New Year's Day (January 1)
  • Twelfth Night (January 5)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Preston in January

Temperatures on an average day in Preston in January

The average temperature in Preston in January for a typical day ranges from a high of 42°F (6°C) to a low of 35°F (2°C). Some would describe it as cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Preston, July, has days with highs of 66°F (19°C) and lows of 53°F (12°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 43°F (6°C) and lows of 35°F (2°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Preston in January based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in January
42°F
highs
35°F
lows

General weather summary

Cold and breezy
Feels like
44%
Chance of rain
0.132 in
Amount
19.9 mph
Wind speed
95%
Humidity
8.1 hrs
Daylight length
8:18 AM
Sunrise
4:21 PM
Sunset
27%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in January
With an average high of 42°F (6°C) and a low of 35°F (2°C), it generally feels cold and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket and remember to bring an umbrella
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Best attractions for Preston in January

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Preston has to offer for travelers in January, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Preston that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Preston for January.
Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary
1. Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary
4.8
(755)
Animal park
Nature & Parks
Avian center for protected raptor species, with flying demonstrations & treasure hunts for kids.
Brockholes
2. Brockholes
4.5
(3130)
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Wetland and woodland nature reserve, home to rare bird species, with a floating visitor village.
Avenham and Miller Park
3. Avenham and Miller Park
4.7
(2127)
Park
Nature & Parks
Riverside park in a natural amphitheatre with a Japanese water garden, Sebastopol cannon and a cafe.
Bowland Wild Boar Park
4. Bowland Wild Boar Park
4.6
(837)
Nature & Parks
Animal park
Rural wildlife park offering animal feeding, tractor rides, plays areas, riverside walks & a cafe.
Guild Merchant
5. Guild Merchant
4.3
(675)
Pub
Outdoor Activities
Beacon Fell Country Park
6. Beacon Fell Country Park
4.7
(714)
Country park
Nature & Parks
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
7. Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
4.6
(1595)
Art museum
Museums
Building with Greek-themed murals and sculptures, displaying textiles/history/photography/fine art.
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
8. Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
4.6
(796)
Museum
Conference center
Faithfully maintained locomotives dating back more than 100 years, plus steam train rides.
Cuerden Valley Park
9. Cuerden Valley Park
4.5
(506)
Park
Nature & Parks
Preston Railway Station
10. Preston Railway Station
3.9
(55)
Transport interchange
Sights & Landmarks
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
11. The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
4.7
(957)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Interactive displays of old horse-drawn carriages, fire engines & delivery trucks, plus a gift shop.
Preston Guild Hall
12. Preston Guild Hall
4.2
(1362)
Event venue
Bar
Versatile space with major concert arena and 780-seat theatre, for music, comedy and family shows.
Preston Docks MX
13. Preston Docks MX
4.5
(112)
Off-road race track
Sights & Landmarks
Ribchester Roman Museum
14. Ribchester Roman Museum
4.3
(277)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Fishergate Shopping Centre
15. Fishergate Shopping Centre
4.1
(4320)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Deepdale Stadium
16. Deepdale Stadium
4.3
(2632)
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Fully seated home stadium of 'The Lilywhites' with a club superstore and National Football Museum.

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