Preston is recorded in the Domesday Book as consisting of about 60 households; quite a sizeable village in relation to the population of the British Isles at the time. However archaeological digs have established the existence of Bronze Age and Iron Age settlements within the existing parish. The church of St. Mildred’s was reputably founded by Saint Mildred in 700 AD and this church still retains evidence of Saxon stonework; as does the church at Elmstone. The population of Preston Parish fluctuated through the ages; now having 275 households.

Today Preston still retains a Local Pub a Village Store, a Butchers and Farm Shop while within a decade and a half Preston Nursery has achieved a nationwide reputation for the quality and often exotic range of its plants.

The annual Steam Rally and ploughing matches at Preston Court have been popular events on the village calendar, attracting visitors from far afield.