Getting Around Preston as a Student: The Best Bus Routes, Cycle Paths and Walkable Areas

Discover the best ways to travel around Preston as a student, including affordable bus routes, cycling paths and walkable areas near the University of Lancashire, helping you save time and money.

Going to university also means spending time in a new city. The good news is that Preston is easy to live in on a student budget. It is also fairly simple to travel around day-to-day. Because it is a smaller city, you can usually get from your lectures to meet friends, or to reach open green spaces, without spending much on getting there.

Here is some useful information for getting around the city using Preston transport, cycling routes, and footpaths.

Bus Routes for Simple Student Travel in Preston

As a student, you will always be on a budget. Therefore, buses are one of the best ways for students to get around Preston when the bad weather hits, or you need to travel a bit further out than your usual destinations.

Preston Bus Station: This is the major city hub for local and popular destinations and is just a 10-15-minute walk from the main University of Lancashire campus.
The Number 31 Bus: A student favourite for travelling around Preston, it stops right outside the C&T Building opposite the Students' Union.
Late-Night Services: Outlying areas such as Fulwood, as well as destinations such as Royal Preston Hospital, have buses running until late at night, making them convenient for getting home safely after a night out.
Fares and Passes: Students can get a £3.50 fare with contactless ‘Tap and Go’. You can also purchase a student term pass or use a Preston Plus Bus pass for discounted unlimited travel.

Student Guide to Buses and Cycling in Preston: Top Cycling Routes

Students often have a typical day of long periods of sitting while studying and little activity. Cycling is a great way to keep yourself fit and save money on transport in Preston. Preston is known as a walkable city. It has great cycle lanes that connect you to different parts of the city.

The Guild Wheel: It features a 21-mile greenway loop encircling the city. It is completely free and links directly to major parks.
Avenham and Miller Parks: These well-connected parks are a short cycle ride or a 12-minute walk from the university campus. You can cycle along the pathways towards Preston Docks or call into local spots for coffee and homemade doughnuts.
Bike Storage: Most local buses and trains will let you take your bike on board outside peak hours..

Walkable Areas Near the University of Lancashire

Preston is easy to get around. Many student hangouts are a short walk from your classes. Meeting friends is easy too.

Moor Lane and Brook Street: They are located close to the University of Lancashire campus. Most students can reach the campus in about 1-6 minutes on foot.
Adelphi: Many students go there. It's about an 8-12 minute walk. You can grab cheaper food there, and Coco’s does a Jerk Chicken Wrap. You will also spot cafés like Townhome Coffee and Brew Bar.
Plungington: It is more budget-friendly. Expect around 10-15 minutes to reach campus.
Avenham and Broadgate: They are usually calmer than the other spots. The walk is often about 10-20 minutes. There are good drink options, like Turtle Bay. You can also reach nightlife spots, including Warehouse.

Enhance Your Student Experience at Urban Hub

Your environment directly affects your academic performance. Urban Hub offers luxury, fully furnished studio apartments where you can study and relax in peace. Our modern spaces are located right next to campus, so you can cut out long daily commutes, reduce everyday stress, and stay focused on earning top grades throughout university.

Best Ways To Travel Around Preston As A Student

Even if you want to leave campus and explore places further afield, we are strategically located, with everything within easy reach by public transport and bike. So, don't overthink it; now’s the time to make the move and choose a place that's modern and designed with students in mind.

Connect with us to know more!

FAQs

Q1. How far is the Preston Bus Station from the University of Lancashire campus?

The University of Lancashire is about a 10-15-minute walk from Preston Bus Station. That makes it easier for students to get to classes without running late.

Q2. What is the best way to get around Preston on a budget?

The city is so compact that you can walk almost everywhere for free. For longer journeys, students can use affordable options with contactless “Tap and Go” bus fares.

Q3. Can you travel with your bike on public transport in Preston?

Yes, you can get your bike on many local trains, and also use them in some buses. There may be limits during peak hours, so read the local rules first and confirm what your local transport policy allows.

Q4. Are there Preston bus routes that operate late at night?

Yes, some services to areas such as Fulwood and Royal Preston Hospital run late on certain routes.

Q5. How accessible are the local parks to the main student areas?

Avenham and Miller Parks are a short walk or cycle ride away from the main campus.