36 fantastic pictures of Preston's roughest pubs through the decades - chosen by Lancashire Post readers

According to our dear readers, the following pubs were known to be frequented by the the city’s ‘rougher clientele’, including iconic spots like the Red Lion, The Bears Paw, and the Balmoral.

Many of these historic pubs are now closed, with places like the Lion and Garrison being demolished or redeveloped, while others are still open but no longer boast the rough reputation they once did.

Please note, the lists reflect past reputations, from the ‘50s to the early 2000s, and many of the establishments are no longer operating in the same way. They do not reflect on the pubs’ current reputation, management or clientele, but serve as a nostalgic look back at Preston's drinking scene.

Some of the pubs named by our readers include:

• The Red Lion: Famous in the '80s, known for its "edge" and even raids, though some remembered it fondly.

• The Bears Paw: Mentioned for having tough clientele, but also a good night out for some.

• The Balmoral: A rough spot where propositions were common, noted as being on the site of the even rougher Black Swan.

• The Lion (Witt's End): A Moor Nook estate pub that was burnt down in an arson attack after being renamed.

• The Royal Garrison (The Garrison): Popular with soldiers and football fans, now closed and awaiting redevelopment.

• The Neptune: Associated with Aerospace workers, saw trade decline before closing and becoming an office block.

• Plungington Tavern: A grand building with a rough reputation before it closed.

• White Lion (Syke Hill): Frequented by rag and bone men, with fights guaranteed nightly in the '50s.