'An overlooked part of the city reawakened' - Free exhibition to mark transformation of Preston's Chew's Yard
From disused workshops to a bustling social hub- ‘Chew’s Yard in the Frame’ will document the Preston venue’s fantastic transformation.
As part of its forthcoming second birthday celebrations this May, Chew’s Yard on Market Street West in Preston city centre will host an informal photographic exhibition capturing the venue’s remarkable transformation.
Running from April 30 to June 7 2026, the free exhibition will present a curated selection of images documenting the site’s evolution from disused industrial workshops into one of the city’s most distinctive social destinations.
The photographs will be displayed throughout the building, inviting visitors to experience compelling “before and after” contrasts in situ.
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The site, which stood vacant for a number of years, was formerly home to Walkers Windows, a long-established local manufacturer of window frames.
The exhibition title, Chew’s Yard in the Frame, playfully references this heritage, while also alluding to photography, framing, and the exposed structural framework that defines the building’s industrial character today.
Ben Casey, Preston-born designer and originator of Chew’s Yard, said: “The sequence of photographs shows how we retained the raw surfaces, textures, colours and atmosphere of the original working buildings to create a unique venue that feels inclusive, familiar and authentic.”
Exhibition organiser Fiona Candy added: “The selected images form a visual record of how ingenuity, determination, design vision and craft skills have combined to reawaken an overlooked part of the city. It’s been inspiring to see the space take on a new life of its own. The building team and the many skilled tradespeople involved have done an outstanding job.”
Since opening, Chew’s Yard has become a vibrant hub within Preston’s evolving city centre, contributing to wider regeneration efforts and offering a dynamic mix of independent food vendors, events and social space.
Ben Casey continued:“We want to thank the many people who have contributed to and continue to shape Chew’s Yard’s ongoing evolution, especially our customers, whose energy and enthusiasm bring the space to life.”
Also as part of Chew’s Yard second birthday celebrations, the venue is hosting a whole weekend of fun at the start of May.
Between Thursday April 30 to Sunday May 3, a whole host of free events are taking place, bringing together stand-up comedy, live DJs, a street parade, and a vibrant food and drink offering.