Preston is a city and district in Lancashire, North West England, located on the north bank of the River Ribble. It serves as the administrative centre of Lancashire and has a mix of urban and suburban areas. The district includes several neighbourhoods, such as Fulwood, Ribbleton, and Ashton-on-Ribble, each with its own character. Preston is known for its historic market square, one of the oldest in the UK, and its proximity to the Forest of Bowland and Ribble Valley.
The area has strong transport links, including the M6 motorway and West Coast Main Line, connecting it to major cities like Manchester and Liverpool. Preston is home to the University of Central Lancashire, one of the largest in the country. The district has a mix of green spaces, including Avenham and Miller Parks, alongside retail and commercial developments. Its industrial heritage includes textiles and engineering, though the economy has diversified in recent decades.