Harris Museum and Art Gallery

The Story of Preston gallery on the first floor of the Harris Museum is now closed and work is underway to completely transform it into a new history gallery called Discover Preston - an engaging space filled with new stories investigating Preston’s history and collections in a fresh new way. It will also complement and reveal the Harris Museum’s architecture and historic views from the building.

A new Discovery Room in the gallery will provide lively opportunities for visitors to investigate our collections more closely and explore the hidden stories of old favourites like the 12,000 year old Poulton Elk. It will also provide a modern and fully equipped space for events and workshops.

Please note the only the history gallery (The Story of Preston) is now closed, with work now underway to prepare the new gallery for opening in summer 2012. But the rest of the museum remains open as usual.

Go beyond the grand exterior of the Harris Museum in Preston’s city centre and you’ll be rewarded by a delightful mixture of contemporary and traditional art that’s completely free to visit. Head up the dramatic staircase to explore two floors of art ranging from unusual textile prints of the 20th century to more traditional fine art of the 19th century, including water colours by JMW Turner and Samuel Palmer.

The new and frequently changing exhibitions make sure there is never a dull moment and kids will be keen to join in the Hands on Gang activities and events. At the end of your trip to the Harris Museum don’t forget to call in the café – the inspirational setting and views up to the Egyptian balcony will leave you in awe.

The annual events programme at the Harris Museum is packed full of talks and guided tours by curators and experts who are keen to share their passion – see the website for details.

Much of the art on display has been donated by or relates to the people of Preston and many of the collections hold great significance nationally and internationally.

• Free Entry
• Permanent collection of Fine Art, ceramics and glassware.
• Devoted gallery to the Story of Preston
• Regularly changing exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art
• Contemporary photography collection
• Collection of mid 20th Century fashion dresses by the Horrockses label
• Regular themed guided tours
• Grade 1 listed building
• Museum café and shop