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...
21. In 1988 bosses at the Britannic Assurance offices found themselves in hot water when they were refused planning permission and listed building consent for two illuminated wall signs - which had already been erected. The company were ordered to remove the signs as they didn't fit with the character of the conservation areaPhoto: Archive
National World
22. The junction of Garden Street with Winckley Square in PrestonPhoto: Archive
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23. In 1989 one of Preston's longest established commerce firms - brokerage company Garratt, Son and Flowerdew - was to leave its corner spot on Winckley Square for pastures new in Fulwood. The building was snapped up by another old Preston firm - solictors Napthens - who occupied a premises on the other side of the SquarePhoto: Norman Wiggins
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24. Solicitors firm Napthens occupied this office on Winckley Square in 1989. When this image was taken they had just bought the old offices of brokerage company Garratt, Son and Flowerdew on the other side of the SquarePhoto: Norman Wiggins
National World