Preston boasts a rich industrial heritage given its status as one of the great cotton towns of the industrial revolution. And while history still looms large over the city thanks to more than 70 English Heritage-listed buildings, Gothic churches and more, Preston also embraces its modern and youthful side. The University of Lancashire bestows a large student population on the city, with many drawn to its relatively low cost of living compared to nearby Manchester and Liverpool, both of which are well served by fast, direct transport links.