Built for history makers – explore County Hall, Preston

County Hall in Preston is one of Lancashire’s most significant civic landmarks and has been at the heart of local government for well over a century. Designed by Manchester architect Henry Littler in the Queen Anne Revival style, the building was officially opened on 14 September 1882 to provide accommodation for the county courts, administrative offices and Lancashire Constabulary headquarters. Following the creation of Lancashire County Council in 1889, County Hall became the centre of county governance and has remained its headquarters ever since.

Enjoy exclusive access to County Hall and soak up its rich and wonderful heritage from 10.00am to 16.00pm.

Discover the fascinating story of Lancashire County Council's County Hall during an engaging talk by Josh Mynott, Chief of Staff at Lancashire County Council. Hosted in the magnificent Council Chamber, explore the building's rich history, architectural features, and civic heritage. Learn about the some of the people whose lives and work have shaped, and been shaped by, County Hall over the decades.

Chamber Talks:
11.40 - 12.10 Talk 1
13.30 - 14.00 Talk 2
15.10 - 15.40 Talk 3

Additional talks and tours in the Christ Church Chapel and Lancashire Archives are also available on 19th September. See booking link for details.

Places on talks and tours are limited and should be pre-booked, but you are also welcome to just drop in and learn more about various council services both past and present.

Timings

Saturday 19 September:

11.40 13.30 and 15.10

Location & directions

County Hall, Fishergate Hill, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 8XJ

Directions:

County Hall, Preston, PR1 8XJ (Entrance via Pitt Street). Christ Church Chapel, Preston PR1 8XJ (Entrance via Bow Lane). Lancashire Archives, Preston PR1 2RE (Entrance via Arthur Street). Public Transport We encourage all attendees to use public transport where possible. The nearest rail station is Preston, from which County Hall is less than a 5-minute walk. Preston Bus Station is a 10-15 minute walk. Use the Preston Journey Planner here: https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/ Parking The Arthur Street, car park (postcode PR1 8XB) will be available with a limited number of spaces - parking charges apply.

Contact on day:

Lynn Chadwick

Telephone number:

+447952819030

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking preferred

Booking conditions:

Booking is not essential, but please pre-book to ensure your place.

Booking contact name:

Lynn Chadwick

Booking telephone number:

+441772533489

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://www6.apps.lancashire.gov.uk/w/webpage/event-details?eventid=4164613

Booking opens:

13 Aug 2026 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

19 Sep 2026 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

We will do our best to fulfil your requirements to allow you to fully participate in this event. If you have any accessibility requirements, please let us know as you book your space or speak to staff on arrival if you need any assistance. A detailed access guide is available for county hall. Christ Church Chapel is accessible for wheelchair users when entering via Bow Lane reception – please ask staff on arrival to be directed via the appropriate route.

Additional information

Max number of people:

100

Estimated duration:

0 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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