Harris Museum

Harris Museum
The Harris building
Harris Museum
Location in Preston city centre
Established1893 (1893)
LocationMarket Square,
Preston PR1 2PP
United Kingdom
Coordinates53°45′33″N 2°41′54″W / 53.75911°N 2.69825°W / 53.75911; -2.69825
TypeArt Gallery and Public Library
Visitors345,258 annually (pre-2025 re-opening)
Assistant DirectorTim Joel
Public transit accessPreston Bus Station
Preston Railway Station
Websitewww.theharris.org.uk
Listed Building – Grade I
Official nameHarris Public Library, Museum and Art Gallery
Designated12 June 1950
Reference no.1207306

The Harris Museum, now known as The Harris, is a Grade I-listed building in Preston, Lancashire, England. Founded by Edmund Harris in 1877, it is a local history and fine art museum, and public library, covering 60,000 square feet (5,600 m2) and 23 public spaces. Prior to its 2025 re-opening, following a £19 million renovation, it attracted around 345,258 visitors annually. Monthly visitor numbers have reportedly more than doubled since its re-opening.

Like other publicly funded museums in the United Kingdom, The Harris does not charge visitors for admission, although visitors are requested to make a donation if they are able.