Harrison Drury helps Preston bar launch Christmas Market attraction
Harrison Drury has supported a bar in Preston to bring some extra holiday magic to the city after getting the go ahead to launch a Christmas market outside the venue.
The Winter Lodge – which has opened its doors in the city’s Friargate every November, December and January for the last few years – will this year include Bavarian-themed huts offering a seasonal menu of German hot dogs, waffles, steins and mulled wine.
Open until early January, the venue has live music and special events planned every weekend, making it a must-visit destination this festive season.
If the concept proves successful, the owners of the Winter Lodge plan to create a larger-scale version of the markets next year that could be Preston’s answer to the renowned Manchester Christmas Markets.
The project was supported by our licensing team who provided legal advice to owners Nick Carter and Ryan Peak on gaining temporary licences to allow a small-scale version of the markets to operate outside the Winter Lodge.
We also helped the operators obtain a permanent licence that will allow them to set up market huts across the entirety of the newly pedestrianised area of Friargate next year.
Ryan Peake, co-owner of the Winter Lodge, said: “We introduced outdoor huts this year as a way to test the concept, with exciting plans to expand further across Friargate in the future.
“Our goal is to showcase the potential of a dedicated Christmas market in the city and inspire future investment. Alongside the huts, visitors can enjoy festive entertainment, seasonal mulled wine, and delicious Christmas-themed food, creating a truly magical holiday experience.”
Malcolm Ireland, partner and head of Harrison Drury’s licensing team, adds: “The Winter Lodge markets are a fantastic addition to Preston’s vibrant high street.
“With the redevelopment of Friargate earlier this year, this part of Preston’s town centre has become even more welcoming for both visitors and residents. We believe the markets will further enhance the experience, and we’re optimistic it will pave the way for greater opportunities next year.”
The Winter Lodge Christmas Markets opened on 29 November and will operate until 5 January.
To find out more, visit The Winter Lodge website.