The Harris has reopened its museum and galleries as the second part of its phased reopening.

Visitors are now able to book an online ticket to the museum and gallery spaces on the first and second floors. The ground floor reopened in the middle of July with the library, café takeaway service and shop opening first.

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To ensure everyone can visit the museum and galleries safely whilst maintaining social distancing, the Harris has introduced a pre-booked ticketing system for two different time slots – 11am to 1:30pm and 1:30pm to 3:30pm.

Visitors will need to show their digital ticket to staff using their phones – tickets do not need to be printed out.

Read more: More of Preston’s Libraries get ready to re-open

Head of Culture at Preston City Council, Tim Joel, said: “The Harris is pleased to be open again to the public with the lending library, café, shop and galleries all available.

“We have had to make several changes to ensure we keep our staff and visitors safe including: asking our visitors to sanitise their hands upon entry, provide details for NHS track and trace, book sessions to visit the galleries and to wear a face mask unless exempt.

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“Visitor numbers have been steadily growing since we have been open and we have received positive comments from our visitors about the arrangements we have put into place.

“It is important we all do our bit to stay alert, control the virus and save lives. By following the simple steps we have put into place we are able to welcome back our visitors to enjoy the fantastic public service provided by the Harris.”

Read more: Harris museum releases updated design plans to reassure concerned Prestonians

The Heritage Reading Room and all the public computers will continue to be unavailable for the time being and visitors should be reminded that reduced opening hours are still in place and the Harris continues to be closed on Sundays.

You can read the list of FAQs on the Harris website to answer any questions you may have before visiting. If you are unable to book your ticket or access the information digitally you can contact the Harris on 01772 905 414 or email theharris@preston.gov.uk 

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines

Will you be visiting the Harris? Let us know in the comments below.