Preston: Winckley Square

Winckley Square is located right in the centre of Preston, just over 100 yards from the hurly-burly and noise of Fishergate. It is a quiet oasis in comparison.  The Square was built in the early 1800s, around Town End Field, owned by Thomas Winckley, hence the name. 

The outside of the buildings in the Square are largely unchanged since they were built. They were originally owned and occupied by Preston's gentry, but today are now mostly financial and legal offices, although there are a few apartments  as well.

The buildings in the Square overlook a well maintained gardens area, with many fine trees, seen on the right. 

Preston-born, Edith Rigby, founded a school there called St. Peter's School, for the education of women and girls. Rigby later became a prominent activist, and was imprisoned on seven occasions as she followed and promoted her beliefs. She was a friend of Emily Pankhurst. 

Some of the buildings were to let, as can be seen above. 

Preston Catholic School was a Jesuit school for boys, and  had as many as 915 pupils attending there in 1970.  It occupied 29 Winckley Square and the adjacent buildings. 

Exclusive apartments in Winckley Square. 

The gardens area in the square were originally separate private plots, each owned by one of the Winckley Square residents. The area is now maintained by Preston City Council.

The shaded areas under the trees were a real bonus on the day I was there, for it was pretty hot!

One of several entrances to the gardens area in the middle of the square. 

Different shades of green.

There are gently sloping steps into the gardens from the city end. 

This really is a peaceful place, considering just how close you are to the city centre. 

The final view of Winckley Square and it's gardens area.