Discover the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library: A Cultural Gem in Preston
Explore the rich history and vibrant artistry at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
The Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library is a captivating cultural hub nestled in the heart of Preston, offering visitors a rich tapestry of art, history, and literature. This landmark venue showcases an impressive collection of fine art, historical artifacts, and literary treasures, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. With its stunning architecture and engaging exhibits, the Harris Museum invites you to explore the creative spirit of the region.
A brief summary to Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
- Market Square, Preston, PR1 2PP, GB
- +441772905414
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for special exhibitions and events during your visit.
- Plan to spend at least a few hours to fully enjoy the diverse collections and library resources.
- Don't forget to explore the surrounding Market Square for local shops and cafes.
- Take advantage of guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the museum's exhibits.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards Preston city center. Use the M6 motorway and take the exit for A59 towards Preston. Follow signs for the city center. Once in the city center, look for signs directing you to Market Square, where the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library is located. There is limited on-street parking available, and public car parks nearby, such as the St. George's Shopping Centre car park. Be prepared to pay for parking, which typically costs around £1.50 per hour.
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Train
For those traveling by train, take a train to Preston Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in the North West. From the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the museum. Exit the station and head towards the city center, following the signs for Market Square. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from the station to Market Square, with a bus fare usually costing around £1.50.
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Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, several local and regional bus services operate to Preston city center. Look for buses that stop at Market Square. The fare varies depending on the distance, but it typically costs around £1.50 for a single journey. Once you disembark at Market Square, the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library will be within walking distance.
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Walking
If you are already in Preston city center, walking to the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library is straightforward. From Market Square, the museum is located directly in the square at Market Square, Preston PR1 2PP. Just follow the pedestrian pathways, and you’ll find the entrance easily.
Discover more about Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Explore the rich history and vibrant artistry at the Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston, a must-visit cultural hub for every traveler.
Preston Cenotaph
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A dignified and beautifully restored memorial in Preston’s Central Park, honoring the city’s fallen soldiers with solemnity and grace.
Chorley's Flying Arches
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Discover Chorley’s rare Victorian Flying Arches, a unique blend of historic railway engineering and modern heritage preservation.
Rivington Pike
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Rivington Pike Tower
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Fairy Glen
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The Blackpool Opera House
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Unmissable attractions to see
St George's Shopping Centre
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A vibrant and accessible shopping hub in Preston, blending high street brands, independent stores, and family-friendly amenities.
Avenham and Miller Park
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Discover Preston’s Victorian riverside gem with tranquil gardens, scenic walks, and vibrant community charm along the River Ribble.
Lancashire Infantry Museum
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Explore five centuries of Lancashire military heritage in one of England's largest regimental collections.
Haslam Park
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Victorian parkland where woodland serenity meets family fun along Preston's waterways.
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
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Step back in time on a heritage steam train through Preston’s historic docklands, surrounded by vintage locomotives and riverside views.
Lostock Hall Henge
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Explore the tranquil ancient earthworks of Lostock Hall Henge, a prehistoric ceremonial site nestled in Preston's peaceful landscape.
Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary
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Brockholes
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Explore Brockholes, Lancashire’s award-winning floating nature reserve blending innovation, wildlife, and family fun in a stunning riverside setting.
Viking Woodland
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Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank
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Cuerden Valley Park
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The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
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Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve
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A tranquil wetland oasis in Preston, blending rich industrial heritage with vibrant wildlife and accessible nature trails.
Samlesbury Hall
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Worden Park
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Historic estate grounds transformed into a vast family-friendly park with gardens, maze, playground, and miniature railway in Leyland.
Essential places to dine
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
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Aven Restaurant
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The Italian Orchard
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The Broughton Inn
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Walled Garden Restaurant
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A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
The Pickled Goose
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Charnock Farm Restaurant
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Rustic country dining, comfortable motel stays, and charming event spaces nestled in the tranquil Lancashire countryside.
Lang's Restaurant
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Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
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Angels Restaurant
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Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Encore Restaurant
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Rigby's Farmhouse
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Cozy farmhouse dining in Preston serving hearty British classics and an exceptional gin selection for family and friends.
The Bonny Inn
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Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
The Farmers Arms Great Eccleston
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Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant
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Elegant four-star country hotel with fine dining, scenic gardens, and cozy suites nestled in the Forest of Bowland near Preston.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Retrogue Vintage Clothing
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Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
KENJI Preston
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Discover an eclectic mix of unique gifts and general merchandise from Asia in Preston’s vibrant KENJI store within St George's Shopping Centre.
The Mill Shop
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Mood Gifts & Home
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Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
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The Secret Closet
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Curated Italian, Danish & Portuguese fashion with a commitment to responsible, sustainable retail.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
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Rufford's Country Lifestyle
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Freckle Boutique
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Cedar Farm
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The Hive
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Dream
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La Shack Costume Fashion Jewellery and Gifts
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THE FOSSIL STORE
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Quirky Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Winedown
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Baluga Bar & Club
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Revolution Preston
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A vibrant four-level cocktail bar and restaurant in Preston city centre, perfect for dining, cocktails, and late-night partying.
Guild Ale House
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Preston’s first micro pub, Guild Ale House serves exceptional local ales in a cozy, lively setting with a welcoming community vibe.
Hogarths
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Blitz Venue & Nightclub
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Black Horse
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Plug & Taps
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FORUM BAR & KITCHEN
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Hartleys Wine Bar
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The Winter Lodge
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Ships and Giggles
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No. 16 On The Hill
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The Plough Grimsargh
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Preston
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The Warehouse
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Club underground
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Pure Nightclub
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Funny Girls
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The Tache Rock Club
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Hush Nightclub
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Trilogy Nightclub
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Popworld - Blackpool
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Sanuk Nightclub
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