Step inside a Grade II listed building where the echoes of history are preserved within the stone walls of the old Sessions House. This former courthouse, designed by Thomas Rickman in the Neo-Classical style, stands as a stately landmark on Stanley Street, featuring a symmetrical frontage and Doric order columns that signal its importance.
Explore the Heritage of Lancashire
The Museum of Lancashire offers a comprehensive journey through the local identity. You can explore "Lancashire Through Time," which houses archaeological collections, or delve into "Lancashire at Work" to see the legacy of local industries. For those interested in the social history and culture of the region, the "Lancashire at Play" section features a notable costume collection by Hylda Baker alongside memorabilia from iconic figures like Les Dawson, George Formby, and Gracie Fields.
Witness History and Conflict
The museum provides an immersive look into more somber chapters of the past. In the "Lancashire Goes to War" gallery, you can experience an atmospheric First World War trench. The "Lancashire Law and Order" section utilizes its unique setting as a former courthouse to display court-related materials, while also showcasing local history through exhibits on the home front and the 14th/20th King's Hussars.
Plan Your Visit
When visiting, focus your time on the atmospheric First World War trench to truly capture the scale of the region’s military history. While the building was once topped with a dome in 1849, it now features a ceiling light, ensuring you can view the extensive collections clearly. After you have finished exploring the archives and artifacts within the Sessions House, you can continue your day by visiting other nearby landmarks such as the Harris Museum, Miller Park, St John's Minster, or The Cenotaph.
Prepare for an immersive afternoon in Preston's historic center by planning your visit to see these diverse collections firsthand.