Top 5 Abandoned Places in Preston

Preston, known for its industrial roots and historic architecture, also has a number of abandoned places that reveal a quieter, often mysterious side of the city. From old mills to forgotten railway stations, these locations offer a haunting glimpse into Preston’s past. Here are 5 of the most captivating abandoned places in Preston for urban explorers and history enthusiasts.


1. St. Joseph’s Orphanage

Built in the 1870s, St. Joseph’s Orphanage was originally a children’s home and later became a hospital. Abandoned in the 1980s, it has since fallen into decay, with empty wards, broken windows, and eerie corridors filled with peeling paint. Known for its haunting atmosphere, the orphanage has become an iconic abandoned site in Preston, drawing photographers and explorers intrigued by its ghostly charm.


2. Courtaulds Red Scar Mill

Courtaulds Red Scar Mill was once a thriving textile mill and later used for manufacturing synthetic fibers. Closed in the late 20th century, the site now lies in disrepair, with empty factory floors, rusting machinery, and overgrown grounds. The decaying industrial architecture serves as a reminder of Preston’s once-thriving textile industry and is a captivating spot for those interested in the city’s industrial history.


3. Preston Dock Control Tower

Originally built as part of the Preston Dock, this control tower managed what was once one of the largest inland docks in the UK. The dock closed in the 1980s, and while much of the area has been redeveloped, the control tower remains abandoned, with rusted staircases and decaying equipment. Its eerie silence and views over the now-quiet docks offer a nostalgic look into Preston’s maritime history.


4. Whittingham Asylum

Located near Preston, Whittingham Asylum was once one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in Europe, opening in the late 19th century. Parts of the asylum have been abandoned for decades, with dark hallways, crumbling walls, and graffiti-covered rooms adding to its eerie atmosphere. Known for its haunting reputation, the asylum captures the history of mental health care and is one of the most famous abandoned sites in the region.


5. The Old Preston to Longridge Railway Line

Once used to transport passengers and goods, the Preston to Longridge Railway fell into disuse after passenger services ended in the 1930s. Some sections of the old railway line remain abandoned, with overgrown tracks, forgotten bridges, and decaying station platforms. These remnants provide a hauntingly atmospheric look at Preston’s transportation history and the legacy of regional rail travel.


Conclusion

Preston’s abandoned places provide a unique glimpse into its industrial, architectural, and social history, from eerie orphanages and grand asylums to textile mills and control towers. Each site combines a sense of historical importance with haunting beauty. Always remember to respect property laws and prioritize safety when exploring these places, as many are restricted or unstable. For those who explore responsibly, Preston’s abandoned places offer a memorable journey into the city’s hidden history.

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