About us
The Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library is managed by Preston City Council and Lancashire County Council. We are proud guardians of our founders’ intention, inscribed on the outside of the building which states that: ‘The mental riches you may here acquire abide with you always’
![](https://www.theharris.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Our-Story.jpg)
Our story
Founded in 1893, the Harris was a gift to the people of Preston. Read about what our founding father Edmund Robert Harris hoped for the city.
Discover![](https://www.theharris.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/ha050918-039-e1568814001289-scaled.jpg)
Our Impact
We offer a wide range of activities which are inspired by our collections and exhibitions and aim to improve social and life skills as well as improving health and well-being.
FIND OUT MORE![](https://www.theharris.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Venure-Hire.jpg)
Venue Hire Closed
Venue Hire closed until 2025 for the Harris Your Place project.
REOPENING IN 2024![](https://www.theharris.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/ha050918-227-scaled-576x383.jpg)
Plan your visit
Discover something new
at the Harris
There’s something for everyone. What are you waiting for?
Plan your visit today!
SHOP & EAT WITH US WHAT TO SEE
Plan your visit![](https://www.theharris.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Egyptian-576x257.jpg)
What’s on
So much to see and do at
the Harris
We have activities for adults, young people and families with children. Most of our events and workshops are FREE and there’s a packed programme of regular events as well as special talks, tours and workshops.
VIEW EVENTS![](https://www.theharris.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/helpers-e1569943064943-576x284.jpg)
Friends of the Harris
Join us today
You can help more local people benefit from #HarrisYourPlace, and you’ll get closer to artists, curators and collections.
Find out more