Situated in the heart of the colourful county of Lancashire, Preston is the gateway to the surrounding beautiful landscape and historical sights. Preston is the largest and most important commercial centre in Lancashire and it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Preston's history dates back to the Domesday Book and to 1179 with the granting of the Charter, which gave the right to hold a Guild Merchant every 20 years. The "Once in a Preston Guild" tradition continues to this day and we look forward to the next in 2012.As England's newest city plans have been agreed for a new multi-million pound redevelopment of the city centre to include major retail, leisure and cultural facilities, which will enhance the existing excellent retail offer and magnificent heritage buildings such as the Harris Museum & Art Gallery.