Having hosted countless events, from markets to mass gatherings, it has also been a long-lasting meeting place, cultural landmark, and architectural wonder over the years. Here we explore our best archive pictures of historic Flag Market scenes from down the decades.
As reader Jeff Dawson says about the inimitable potato vendor Ernie Rhodes: “I used to get a bag of hot potatoes every time I went into town!”
Got a bit more time for day-dreaming? Check out some of our other recent nostalgia picture collections...
Take a trip back to Preston in 1992 with these 35 retro pics of nightclubs, schools, football & kids
1. Flag Market
A fast food war broke out between rival stall holders on Preston's Flag Market in 1980 Photo: RETRO
3. Flag Market
In 1985 the Flag Market underwent a refurbishment and new cast iron lamps were commissioned for the project. They were made by the Coupe Foundry in Higher Walton, and all bear the maker's stamp Photo: RETRO
4. Flag Market
Ernie Rhodes on his hot potato stall at Preston's Flag Market in 1980 Photo: RETRO