Plau Gin and Beer House
115 Friargate, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 2EE
The former Plough Inn has been brought back to life some 105 years after it called last orders in 1913. The guided tour will take you through the many levels, corridors and small rooms of the building, which dates back to the 17th century. It will also include the medieval burgage plot behind, leading to newly restored weavers' cottages at the rear.
The many historic features include the vaulted cellar rooms which contain a dram shop last used in the 1850s, and the remains of the tiny distillery that served it. The medieval stone well in the cellar predates the building and is thought to be associated with the nearby Friary closed by Henry VIII in 1539. A rare reed and lime ceiling survives on the top floor. The cottages are probably the oldest surviving domestic buildings in Preston.
Learn about the fascinating history of the building from the Puritan Chorley family who built it in the 17th century, through to its ownership by one of the leading Jacobite aristocratic families in the 18th century and the role it played in the Temperance movement during the 19th century.
Timings & Tours
- Monday 15 September:
- Tours 1700 and 1830
- Tuesday 16 September:
- Tours 1700 and 1830
Location & directions
115 Friargate, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 2EE
- Directions:
- Plau is on the newly pedestrianised Friargate between Ringway and the University - a short walk from the Flag Market. It is a 10 minute walk from either the bus station or the railway station. There is pay and display and short-term on-street parking nearby.
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Please book in advance as places are limited.
- Booking website:
- https://www.plau.co.uk/gift-cards
Accessibility details
Historic building over four floors with changes of level. Ambulant accessible toilet only.
Additional information
If you'd like to eat at Plau after your tour, there's a discount for participants!
- Max no of people per tour:
- 15
- Est. tour duration:
- 0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)
