Starbucks

You know that slightly panicked feeling when you're rushing to catch the 6:15 train to Manchester and desperately need caffeine? This Fishergate branch has become Preston's unofficial early-morning lifeline, opening at half five when the rest of the city centre is still dead to the world. The location is perfect – right in the thick of the shopping district, so you can grab your flat white and still make it to the station without breaking into a sprint. Sure, it's Starbucks, but this particular one has that warm, lived-in feel that comes from being properly embedded in Preston life. The staff know the regulars, the WiFi actually works, and they've got those window seats that are perfect for people-watching along Fishergate when you've got time to kill.