Oscar-Winner Nick Park Returns Home as The Harris Reopens with Special Exhibition

Animation legend who found inspiration in Preston’s cultural landmark brings his beloved characters back to where it all began – as £19 million transformation creates spectacular new visitor experience

Oscar-winning animation legend Nick Park is returning to his creative roots as The Harris – the Preston museum that inspired his childhood fascination with storytelling – reopens on Sunday, 28 September 2025 with the blockbuster exhibition ‘Wallace & Gromit in A Case at the Museum’.

The homecoming marks a deeply personal full-circle moment for the creator of Britain’s most beloved animated characters, who credits The Harris with nurturing his early passion for filmmaking and animation during his formative years growing up in Preston.

“Growing up, I was always interested in Preston’s history and heritage, and The Harris played a big part in that,” reveals Nick Park. “I found the museum fascinating as a child – I loved exploring the artifacts – and the Library was such a great resource. As a young inquisitive filmmaker, I spent time there, reading all about filmmaking and animation. The Harris has definitely left a lasting impression on me.”

Now, following a spectacular £19 million transformation, The Harris reopens its doors with Park’s creations taking centre stage – a tribute to the institution that helped shape one of Britain’s most successful animation careers.

‘Wallace & Gromit in A Case at the Museum’ will showcase the creative genius behind some of the UK’s most iconic characters, including Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Feathers McGraw. The exhibition will recreate Wallace’s living room from the films, which is very closely based on Nick Park’s grandmother’s living room in Preston.

Visitors will enjoy an immersive journey through original sketches, sets, and props, alongside interactive exhibits that offer a behind-the-scenes look at Aardman’s unique stop-motion animation techniques. The exhibition, running from Sunday, 28 September 2025 to Sunday, 4 January 2026, marks almost 50 years of animation excellence and is set to draw families from across the UK.

Cultural Renaissance for Preston

The reopening represents a triumphant return for one of the UK’s leading regional museums, libraries and galleries, transformed through the Harris Your Place project into a dynamic and inclusive cultural hub for the 21st century. The Grade I-listed building is expected to welcome up to half a million visitors each year – a significant boost to Preston’s cultural profile.

Councillor Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council said: “We couldn’t think of a better way to welcome our visitors back to The Harris than with Aardman’s magical characters. This exhibition celebrates the artistry of animation and will be an unforgettable experience for families and fans.”

Made possible with funding from Preston City Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK Government’s Towns Fund, Lancashire County Council and many other generous partners, the restoration has completely reimagined The Harris as a must-visit cultural destination – perfectly timed for the mass appeal of the Wallace & Gromit exhibition.

Transformation by the Numbers

• £19 million total investment in the Harris Your Place project
• 23 separate rooms for visitors to enjoy across 60,000 square feet
• Expected 450,000+ annual visitors (up from 350,000 pre-closure)
• New library containing over 30,000 books
• 100,000+ collection objects safely returned following refurbishment
• 45 staff members supported by 250 dedicated volunteers

Beyond Wallace & Gromit

The reopening also unveils The Harris’ fresh new look including a redesigned logo, brand identity, and new website. Visitors can expect new galleries, learning spaces, family-friendly facilities, a new café and shop, and heritage tours celebrating the building’s architectural and civic legacy.

Closed since 2021, essential works included the safe removal of asbestos from the roof, comprehensive repairs to preserve the building’s historic structure, and vital improvements to heating, lighting, and accessibility throughout the building.

ENDS

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES

Marketing Lancashire are working closely with The Harris and their team to arrange visits to the Museum and the exclusive media preview event on Friday 26th September 2025. As well as visits to Preston and the wider area for travel features.

This can include

• One-to-one interview opportunities with Nick Park discussing his Preston roots and creative journey
• Private exhibition viewing with expert curator-led tours
• Behind-the-scenes access to animation techniques and original props
• Building tours showcasing the £19 million transformation
• Photo opportunities with iconic Wallace & Gromit characters
• Exclusive access to new galleries, library, and facilities

Travel Media Opportunities

The Harris offers compelling content for travel features:

• Celebrity hometown tourism: Following Nick Park’s creative journey through Preston
• Cultural renaissance: Preston’s emergence as a must-visit cultural destination
• Animation pilgrimage: Where Britain’s most beloved characters come home
• Northwest England: Accessible location with excellent transport links

Interview Opportunities Available

• Nick Park – Creator of Wallace & Gromit, discussing his Preston connections and creative inspiration
• Councillor Anna Hindle – Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts
• Exhibition curators – Behind-the-scenes insights into the display
• Project managers – Details of the £19 million transformation
• Local residents – Community memories and impact of The Harris

Please contact [email protected] to arrange