Preston's landmark cultural institution, The Harris, will officially reopen to the public on Sunday, 28 September 2025, following a major £19 million transformation.

The restoration, delivered through the Harris Your Place project, was made possible through funding from Preston City Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK Government's Towns Fund, Lancashire County Council, Arts Council England, and several other partners.

This once-in-a-generation project reimagines The Harris as a vibrant cultural hub for the 21st century. The refurbished building will offer a dynamic blend of art, history, community spaces, and a revitalised library service, creating a unique and inclusive experience for visitors of all ages.


Located in the heart of Preston, the transformed Harris will feature new galleries, interactive exhibitions, learning and community spaces, family-friendly facilities, and a new café and shop. Heritage tours will also showcase the building’s architectural and civic significance. A redesigned visual identity and website will accompany the reopening, reflecting both its heritage and future-facing vision.

The extensive works began in 2021 and included the safe removal of asbestos from the roof, structural repairs, and key upgrades to heating, lighting, and accessibility. The revamped building is expected to attract up to 500,000 visitors annually.