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...
29. Not much is known about this image, other than it was taken in 1985 and shows office workers in Winckley Square, PrestonPhoto: Archive
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30. A great view of the impressive Georgian buildings which line the street on Winckley Square in PrestonPhoto: Roy Payne
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31. Cars parked on the pavement of Winckley Street, leading up to Winckley Square in Preston. The image is dated 1987Photo: Bernard Howe
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32. In 1951 it seems Winckley Square wasn't such a nice place to visit. But Preston Council had plans to change this perception and gave the gardens a spring clean. When the wood in this picture was cleared away the parks department planted shrubs and flowersPhoto: Archive
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