And while that is, unfortunately, no longer the case after years of seemingly constant pub-closures (there are now fewer than 30,000 pubs in the entire UK), we decided that what better way to enjoy a trip down memory lane than by taking a look through our best archive pictures of forgotten Preston pubs from eras gone by.
I asked Lancashire Post readers what some of their old favourite haunts might be, and here are some of their suggestions...
13. New Ship Inn
There has been a pub on the site in Watery Lane for more than two centuries. Dock workers and sailors used to drink there because of its close proximity to Preston Docks. One of its regular customers was Britain's official hangman Albert Pierrepoint, while the pub got plenty of custom from revellers on their way for a night out on The Manxman nightclub, affectionately known as the Love Boat. In the 1960s it was advertised as Preston's Premier Music venue, while entertainment of a different kind was regularly provided by local comedian Wandering Walter and his "gentlemen's evenings." The pub, which for a short time in the 80s changed its name to the Jolly Roger, finally closed in 2011. Photo: Ian Robinson
14. Brookfield Arms
The Brookfield Arms on Croasdale Avenue in Ribbleton was a large Matthew Brown Lion alehouse. The pub closed in 2000 and, following a serious fire, was demolished in 2004 Photo: Lindsey North
15. Mitre Tavern
Near the junction of Garstang Road and St George's Road there was a number of pubs dotted around. Of them, only two now remain. The Mitre Tavern wasn't one of them though - closing to the public in 2005. Photo: National World
16. County Arms
On the corner of Ribbleton Lane and Deepdale Road, directly opposite Preston Prison. It closed down in 2006 and was demolished in 2007 to create a pay and display car park. Inmates allowed out of jail to work were regular callers on their way back to their cells at curfew. Charles Dickens was reputed to have stayed there, as were judges from the Assize Courts next door to the prison. Photo: Kevin McGuinness Photo: Kevin McGuinness