A Place of Worship Since 1838
From Victorian Methodist origins to a thriving centre of Islamic worship — the story of Preston City Mosque spans nearly two centuries.
A building across the centuries
1838
Wesleyan Methodist Church
The building is constructed as a Wesleyan Methodist Church, becoming a notable part of Preston's Victorian religious landscape.
1885–86
Partial rebuild by James Hibbert
The building undergoes a significant partial rebuild under the direction of architect James Hibbert, reflecting the craftsmanship and ambition of the Victorian era.
Early–mid 20th century
Pentecostal church and City Church Preston
After serving as a Wesleyan Methodist Church for decades, the building later serves as a Pentecostal church and then as City Church Preston, continuing its role as a house of Christian worship.
26 June 2014
Opened as City Mosque Preston
On the first day of Ramadan 1435 AH — Friday 26 June 2014 — the building opens as City Mosque Preston (Preston City Mosque), beginning its new chapter as a centre of Islamic worship, Qur'an education and community service.
Victorian craftsmanship preserved
Constructed in red brick to the front and brown brick to the sides, with sandstone dressings and a slate roof, the building features a symmetrical façade, a projecting porch, classical Tuscan columns, decorative pilasters and five round-headed upper-storey windows.
Inside, it retains a horseshoe-shaped gallery supported by slender cast-iron columns with Ionic capitals — a striking reminder of its Victorian origins. Today, while its purpose has evolved, its role as a house of worship and community gathering remains constant.
Heritage note
The building represents a rare example of a Victorian nonconformist chapel that has been continuously used as a place of worship across multiple religious traditions. Its architectural integrity has been carefully maintained through successive uses.
Visit the mosque
The mosque is open for all five daily prayers. Visitors, neighbours and community members are welcome.
Plan your visit