Free family fun, world-class exhibitions and creative activities at The Harris

Families looking for affordable ways to keep children entertained during the summer holidays need look no further than The Harris in Preston, where a packed programme of exhibitions, workshops, performances and family activities is taking place throughout the school break.

With free entry to the museum, gallery and library, The Harris is offering visitors the chance to enjoy everything from internationally acclaimed art and illustration to hands-on creative activities and family-friendly events. Many of the activities are completely free, making The Harris one of Lancashire's top destinations for families this summer.

What's On at The Harris

The World of Martin Brown: Horrible Histories and Other Dazzling Drawings – Until Monday, 31 August
One of the summer's headline attractions, this colourful exhibition celebrates the work of bestselling illustrator Martin Brown, best known for bringing the hugely popular Horrible Histories books to life. Packed with original artwork, cartoons and behind-the-scenes insights, it is a must-see for children and nostalgic adults alike.

The Birley Exhibition – Artist Led – Until January 2017
This thought-provoking exhibition sees six contemporary artists respond to works by regional artists from The Harris collection. The result is a fascinating dialogue between historic and contemporary creativity, showcasing fresh perspectives on familiar works.

The Big Picture – The pARTnership - Saturday, 18 July – Sunday, 4 October 2026
Bringing together painting, sculpture and mixed-media works, this vibrant exhibition celebrates the talents of learning-disabled artists from Blackpool's pARTnership project. Inspired by The Harris collection, the exhibition highlights creativity, inclusion and artistic ambition.

Temporary Displays
Running throughout the summer, The Harris' temporary displays showcase internationally acclaimed artists, local talent and community-led stories across art, culture and history. Located across the first and second floors, the displays offer something new to discover on every visit and are free to enjoy.

Little Zoo to You – 28 July
Children can get up close to a variety of fascinating animals when Little Zoo to You brings its mini mobile zoo to The Harris. The interactive experience offers a fun and educational introduction to wildlife and includes a complimentary juice box.

Wonky Olympics – 29 July
Forget traditional sporting contests. Wonky Olympics puts a humorous twist on athletic competition, inviting families to take part in quirky challenges inspired by the Ancient Greeks, with plenty of laughs guaranteed.

Grow Your Potential with Youth Futures – Weekly from 30 July
Designed for young people aged 16 to 18, these informal drop-in sessions provide advice and support on education, employment, apprenticeships and future opportunities in a welcoming environment.

Storytelling with Rogan Mills – 30 July
Renowned storyteller Rogan Mills brings stories to life through energetic, interactive performances that encourage children to become part of the adventure and unleash their imaginations.

Creative Workshops with Jonny Cosmo – 1 August
Young people aged 14 to 19 can explore poetry, spoken word and digital creativity in this hands-on workshop, learning how to create engaging visual content and social media reels.

YOU ARE HISTORY with Greg Jenner and Jenny Taylor– 3 August
Discover some delightful, daft and downright deadly facts with historian and podcaster Greg Jenner as he shares the fascinating history behind ordinary objects you see every day.

Footy Fairy Tales – 4 August
Combining football, live music and storytelling, this entertaining family show imagines what happens when fairy tales meet the beautiful game, proving football can inspire everyone.

Vinyl Revival – 6 August
Music lovers are invited to bring their favourite albums and share memories, opinions and discoveries in this relaxed discussion group that celebrates the enduring appeal of vinyl records.

Curator-Led Tour: A Horrible History of Preston - 19 August
From failed stone age hunts to stinky streets, discover the gruesome history of Preston in this exclusive curator-led tour of The Harris, with all the nasty bits left in.

Mini Scarf Weaving and Colouring – 11 August
Hosted by Preston North End Community and Education Trust, this free family activity gives visitors the opportunity to design and weave their own football-inspired scarf.

1938 FA Cup Final Crafts – 18 August
Families can relive Preston North End's famous 1938 FA Cup triumph through a series of themed craft activities celebrating one of the city's greatest sporting achievements.

The Birley Exhibition: In Conversation with Artists Roberta Cialfi and Sarah Grant - 20 August
Learn about their practice, their works on display in The Birley exhibition and their pairings with works from The Harris collection.

Battle of Preston 1715 Guided Walk – 23 August
Meet award-winning Blue Badge Tourist Guide Gregory Wright in our Discover Preston gallery to see the death mask of Jacobite Commander, The Earl of Derwentwater, and then head out on this guided walk to discover the battlefield on the streets of Preston.

Escape 2 Make Mini Heritage Festival – 25 August
A day packed with creative heritage-inspired activities including lino printing, clay carving and weaving. The festival is designed to inspire young people while welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.

Horrible Histories: The Movie Screening – 26 August
Families can round off the summer with a free screening of Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans. The fun-filled film complements the Martin Brown exhibition and brings history to life through comedy and adventure.

With free entry, family-friendly exhibitions and a summer-long programme of activities, The Harris offers visitors countless opportunities to discover, create, learn and be inspired during the school holidays.

For full event details and booking information, visit theharris.org.uk