We’re renowned for our quality music and arts events here at The Continental - in our dedicated event space: THE BOATYARD.
Some are ticketed, while others are free to enter. Take a look at the listings and follow the links to buy tickets.
The ECHOES OF THE BUNNYMEN show is an aural tribute to the alternative Fab Four.
Featuring some of the best tracks from the original line up’s amazing run of albums. Played by musicians who are huge fans of the Bunnymen, who authentically recreate the early sound of one of the UK’s best ever indie bands.
Lay down thy disbelief and groove!
Plus DJ DAVE CHAMBERS
Boatyard Wednesdays returns to The Continental on September 17th, featuring performances from two of the north-west’s most exciting new metal bands — COVERT and SILENCE REIGNS.
KEN NICOL presents an audio/visual presentation of ‘The Glass Chronicles’, in conjunction with the launch of his new book, Reflections From The Ouija Board
‘The Glass Chronicles Show’ includes video, music and song, all inspired by Ken’s experience, and also readings from his new book.
Wrong Jovi are the The Best Bon Jovi Tribute Band In The World, as described by tribute band expert (Channel 4’s The Convention Crasher) and TV celebrity Justin Lee-Collins.
Wrong Jovi features some of the UKs finest professional musicians. With a set list crammed full of sing-along anthems, live favourites and rarities, audiences are guaranteed the ultimate Bon Jovi tribute show.
Damson Poets are in The Boatyard on the 24th September. This month we have a special evening to launch the debut poetry collection Early Settlement by Sophie Tongyu Wu (writing as Wutong Rain). She tells us that she has worked and lived in many places and is still figuring out where she is from. Originally from Beijing and graduated with a biology degree in the USA, she currently works at the University of Lancashire.
"A hilariously caustic spy farce" - Theatre Eye
1985. Tasked by British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher with carrying out an audacious piece of international espionage that could alter the course of the Cold War, renowned poet Philip Larkin must steal a top secret document from the handbag of Soviet premier Mikhail Gorbachev's wife, Raisa.
But can the Hermit of Hull – ageing, infirm and almost pathologically grumpy – really turn James Bond and complete his dangerous mission?
Step into the sonic universe of one of Britain’s most iconic voices with URBAN HYMNS, the ultimate Richard Ashcroft tribute band. From the anthemic heights of The Verve’s Bittersweet Symphony and Lucky Man to the soulful introspection of Ashcroft’s solo masterpieces like A Song for the Lovers and Break the Night with Colour, this band delivers a powerful, authentic celebration of his entire musical journey.
The AC/DC Experience is considered one of the best AC/DC tribute bands in the UK. They are known for their accurate portrayal of AC/DC's music and stage presence.
If you are looking for a tribute band that will give you the closest thing to seeing AC/DC live, then The AC/DC Experience is the band for you!
Plus special guests SLANDER
STRAIGHTEN OUT is the premier Stranglers tribute band out there!
With an extensive set-list that spans two solid hours, they perfectly recreate the 'early years' sound of that classic act…
Another great show from TUFF LIFE BOOGIE!
Indie legends THE LOFT return to The Conti after a sell out tour promoting their new album.
Jangly indie pop greats 14 ICED BEARS provide stellar support.
Add Preston's own indie-pop legends BINGO BAY and this is going to be a fantastic show!
Featuring a line-up of professional musicians with years of live pro experience behind them, The Duran Duran Experience will bring you the best show on Planet Earth.
Others may claim to offer a Duran Duran Experience, but this is THE Duran Duran Experience!
FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY SHOW IN THE SNUG
ACOUSTIC MAC perform Rumours
An evening of two halves….
For the first set David & Laura Tingle will be bringing their own brand of acoustic harmony to a selection of songs from Kate Bush to Talking Heads.
And for the second set we have a real treat for Fleetwood Mac fans as David and Laura are joined by Nick, Rob and Tim known collectively as Acoustic Mac who will be performing the whole of the classic album Rumours.
From Don’t Go Into the Cellar! Theatre
In this original and faithful adaptation of Mary Shelley's perennial Gothic horror, award-winning actor and writer Jonathan Goodwin plays a host of characters, including both Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation.
Dramatic macabre storytelling at its atmospheric best!
IAN PROWSE & AMSTERDAM continue celebrating the 20th anniversary of Does This Train Stop On Merseyside with their first Preston show in 20 years.
The band last played on the original tour to release their classic, they are very excited to be coming back!
ROCK AM RIVER returns to the Conti for its fourth year on October 18th!
Join us at Preston’s iconic riverside pub, where an incredible lineup of live acts will take to the stage in The Continental’s Boatyard venue.
With performances from Loose Articles, YAANG, TV Face, The Empire Police, Sky Valley Mistress, Tuesday Night Whites, Circus, ATH and Brother, Rock am River brings together the best and brightest upcoming artists from around Lancashire and the North-West, for an unmissable day of live music.
FANTASTIC FREE ENTRY SHOW IN THE SNUG
RIBBLE! Two Northern men, a fiddle, a guitar, and a large beard. So far, so what?
Well, add in a 90s drum synth, some mighty arrangements of meaty fiddle tunes, some songs, some wrong turns, battle scars earned busking the streets of Salisbury, a barrowload of end-of-the-pier banter and the feeling that your mad rum-soaked uncle is roaring at you to dance on the tables, then you’re getting close to what Ribble is about.
LOS FASTIDIOS!
The Los Fastidios sound is a powerful melodic street-ska & punk which mixes classical 80’s British Punk-Oi! sounds with a lot of skanking, and some reggae, rock 'n' roll, hardcore rhythms with a touch of pop.
Catch them at this MASSIVE show with special guests DEATH TRAILS and THOS F*CKING SNOWFLAKES!
THE AMY WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE provide an authentic tribute to the precocious talent of Amy Winehouse, the band recreate the authentic sound of her heady mix of jazz, ska, soul and pop.
With a full stage show showcasing the talent of this songstress that will take you on a journey through the emotional roller coaster of her songwriting, guaranteed to have you singing and dancing along throughout the performance.
Join us for a frightfully fun HALLOWEEN PARTY with a full circus show!
Enjoy amazing performers, silly games, spooky surprises, and Halloween fun for the whole family.
Perfect for kids aged 4+, with entertainment and thrills to make your day unforgettable!
Join us for a spooky, hands-on pumpkin carving session with local children’s entertainer, Mr Wolf!
Each ticket includes access to the pumpkin patch, carving tools, and a short film screening during your creative session. Arts and crafts supplies are provided at every table for extra decorating fun. Perfect for kids and families looking at getting into the Halloween spirit!
“As life-affirming as music gets”- The Herald
“The UK’s best lyricist” - King Creosote
WITHERED HAND is the pseudonym of Edinburgh-based singer-songwriter Dan Willson. Since the release of his debut album ‘Good News’ in 2009, Dan has become a celebrated figure in the Scottish music scene and further afield. A well-travelled touring singer-songwriter, he has quietly amassed a devoted cult fanbase while staying true to a singular artistic vision.
Plus special guests TBC
TWO WHEELS GOOD Tour
A 40th anniversary celebration of Steve McQueen
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the release of Prefab Sprout's seminal album Steve McQueen, founding member Martin McAloon will be touring the whole album in 2025.
Known as Two Wheels Good in the USA the album includes the hits; When Love Breaks Down, Faron Young, Appetite, Johnny, Johnny & Moving the River.
Steve McQueen went on to sell millions of records worldwide and was included in the NME's 100 greatest albums of all time. He will also be playing other hits from across his brother Paddy's catalogue of exceptional songs.
A night of PURE PUNK ROCK MAYHEM featuring world-famous original punk act 999! Featuring Nick Cash, Guy Days and Arturo Bassick
Joined on the night by vintage Swedish punkers DEAD POLLYS and hot new act COCK BATTETH! Get here early.
ANOTHER GREAT SUNDAY AFTERNOON BIG BAND EVENT AT THE CONTINENTAL
DG Kollectivity are a 'modern' ensemble that is musically eclectic, embracing different musical genres such as Jazz and Latin. One particular speciality is in performing production music from a golden age of film/TV/Library (60's/70's). The standard line up is 13 horns (includes two flutes) and five piece rhythm section (two keyboards).
The most authentic tribute to the music of The STONE ROSES. Reni's beats, Mani's grooves, John's riffs & Ian's monkey business.
Each member of ULTIMATE STONE ROSES is a die-hard fan of the original band who has dedicated themselves to mastering the music of their heroes.
From the makers of MOTHERSHIP and ECLIPSE!
BURN – Deep Purple Tribute present over two hours of searing rock and roll from one of the greatest rock bands of the seventies.
Expect all the classics – Highway Star, Fireball, Space Truckin’, Woman from Tokyo – but also MkIII classics like Stormbringer, You Fool No One, What’s Going On Here, and, of course… BURN!
No costumes, wigs or make up. Just two great musicians - Tim Chu and Ian Bailey - producing an ambient collection of some of Simon & Garfunkel’s much-loved hits. Unmissable.
Tickets strictly limited for this all-seated show.
WHATEVER - OASIS TRIBUTE are Manchester's finest Oasis Tribute act, bringing you all of the Oasis classics such as Don't Look Back in Anger, Morning Glory, Champagne Supernova, Supersonic, Live Forever, Wonderwall & many more!
Formed in the Gallaghers’ home town of Manchester , Whatever - Oasis Tribute put on a banging live show using their trademark Epiphone & Gibson instruments.
You can't get any more authentic than that!
DOCTOR WU
A great blend of rhythm and blues, jazz and rock
Join us for an evening with Doctor Wu, where rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock converge to create an evening with plenty of groove.
Doctor Wu will be playing music by Steely Dan, Robben Ford, Cream, B.B. King, Steve Winwood, John Mayer, Daryl Hall and John Oates, Boz Scaggs and the Allman Brothers. Should be a blast!
Playing hits from the UK Glam Rock era 1971-1976
Are you ready to step back in time and re-live the electrifying era of Glam Rock?
Look no further than the GLAMROCKERZ, a live five-piece band that pays homage to the unforgettable Glam Rock era of 1971 to 1976.
With their energetic performances and a set list packed with everyone's favourite hits from Suzi Quatro, David Bowie, Slade, T Rex, Mud, The Bay City Rollers, and many more!
Tickets strictly limited for this all-seated show!
STEELY DON is an eleven-piece band based here in the north and dedicated to playing the music of Steely Dan & Donald Fagen.
Their aim is to deliver authentic performances of back catalogue charts from the classic albums of these highly regarded musicians who worked with some of the finest session players of the day to produce music that blended elements of rock, jazz, Latin and R & B blues.
RECENT RELEASES OLD FAVOURITES
CULT CLASSICS HIDDEN GEMS
EVERY OTHER TUESDAY!
If like us you miss the big screen experience, the escapism it allows and the delight in discovering new cinema, then worry no longer, as The Continental presents Cinema at The Continental, our fortnightly film club.
ANOTHER GREAT SUNDAY AFTERNOON BIG BAND EVENT AT THE CONTINENTAL
The Ribble Valley Jazz Big Band have evolved since 2010 with like minded musicians with a passion for big band music old and new. Directed by established jazz musician Paul Rigby and featuring guest vocalist Sara Creeney.
A wonderful way to spend your Sunday Afternoon!
The Authentic Sound of THE DOORS!
The Doors Rising are a UK based Doors Tribute band capturing the sound, feel and experience of the psychedelic 60s.
Step back in time and re-live the music of The Doors recreated with stunning accuracy, using authentic instruments by true fans with an ear for the details.
FIRST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH!
Whether you sing, play guitar, or do stand-up or spoken word, come along and take to the stage at the friendliest and best Open Mic Night in town, with hosts Typhaine & Colin. Or simply come along and sample some of the finest under-the-radar talent Preston has to offer!
Following a incredible return to the road in 2024, HUE AND CRY are bringing their wonderful electro acoustic show to The Conti in September 2025.
“They’ve lasted because they are brilliant” Radio 2
“After all the years they sound better than ever” Lorraine
“Timeless & classic pop anthems” Greatest Hits Radio
Award winning The Laughienda Comedy Club brings another huge night of comedy to Preston, headlined by the hilarious PAUL TONKINSON! 😂😂
Also featuring KATIE TRACEY and support from AMIT MISTRY & CHLOE REYNOLDS
“Guaranteed laughs” - The Guardian
“One of the best nights out" - The Manc
With DJs NEON EYES, TYRAMYX & TIM MELIA
Get ready for an afternoon of ITALO DISCO in the Beer Garden at The Continental
Expect a chilled vibe with the mid tempo sounds of electronic drums, synthesizers, vocoders and pop vocals. FREE ENTRY
ONE EIGHTY TWO are the most authentic representation of the pop-punk legends blink-182. Bringing decades of experience and smashing out more than 30 years of material.
One Eighty Two will take you to California and back with an explosion of pop-punk anthems. With the iconic styles of Mark, Tom, and Travis replicated to a tee, from the much-loved stage banter to the most up-to-date image and sound, no stone is left unturned in the quest for Pop Punk Glory.
BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY. Free entry! All welcome.
The North West’s favourite LOVERS ROCK ROOTS REGGAE crew - ZAMAICA - play live in our Beer Garden!
Plus DJ sets from NORTH FIYAH SOUND
BBQ on from 12-8pm. Bring the family!
