Quiltfest North 2026 returns to Chorley's Astley Hall with free exhibition showcasing textile art

Hundreds of intricate creations, from traditional patchwork designs to bold contemporary textile art, are on display as Quiltfest North 2026 returns to Astley Hall in Chorley.

The free exhibition features seven different areas of work, including pieces by renowned artists and local quilting groups, highlighting the creativity and diversity of the craft.

There are big pieces, small framed exhibits, all showcasing the variety of the quilting craft.

Visitors can enjoy seven different areas of exhibits on show, all very different and creatively challenging in their own way, including a large display created with 37 individual pieces on the topic of summertime.

Patchwork and quilting teacher Lis Binns said: "This is our third exhibition in this space and we are delighted to be back.
We had around 5,000 people visit our previous exhibitions here. We're really looking forward to seeing people coming to this one, because we think it's very special."

"There are a variety of eye-catching pieces by NiKKI Parmenter, who creates beautiful artistic work by stitching through layers of plastic and PVC, bringing in colour and foils. They are so spectacular and they just light up the gallery!"

"We have another artist Charlotte Wood, who creates very different pieces, with large 3D forms, including a man in a chair and a dolphin suspended from the ceiling."

On Saturday 13th June there will be a free Young Quilters' workshop for children to be inspired by the exhibition and create something in a hands-on workshop - free to join in anytime throughout the day.

Quiltfest North 2026 is open 10am to 3pm (except for Mondays and Tuesdays) until June 28 at The Coach House Gallery, Astley Hall, Chorley. Admission is free.