The brainchild of William Cross, a local solicitor, Winckley Square was originally established as a restricted development and exclusive residential area, overseen by Cross and his wife in 1801.
He took the square's name from the former owner Thomas Winckley, from whom the site was purchased, with the square's gardens originally comprised of private plots owned by residents.
Later it became a public park, which included the Sir Robert Peel statue being erected by public subscription in 1852. More recently Winckley Square underwent a £1.2m restoration to reassert its place as the jewel in the crown of Preston.
Still in the mood for a bit more nostalgia? Check out some of our other recent retro pieces...
18. Traffic has long been an issue around Winckley Square in Preston, as you can see from this image taken in 1973Photo: Archive
National World
19. This imposing structure was home to Preston's oldest club - the Winckley Club - and was situated on the east side of Winckley Square. When this image was taken in 1964 a substantial offer had been made to buy the buildingPhoto: Archive
National World
20. This image of Winckley Square in Preston was taken in the 1980sPhoto: Archive
National World