As preparations for the World Snooker Championships 2026 get underway in Sheffield, it brings back fond memories of the sport’s long history in Preston.
This year’s tournament, running from April 18 to May 4, will once again be staged at the iconic Crucible Theatre, home of the World Snooker Championship since 1977.
But long before and alongside that legacy, Preston’s own Guild Hall played host to some of the game’s biggest moments. From the UK Championship between 1978 and 1997 to the World Grand Prix and stages of the Premier League, the city welcomed the sport’s elite for decades.
The venue attracted legends of the game including Steve Davis, Jimmy White, Ken Doherty and Ronnie O’Sullivan, who made history in Preston in 1993 by becoming the youngest ever ranking event winner.
Snooker at the Guild Hall came to an end in 2019, with the final frames played during the Players Championship.
Now, we’ve dipped into the archives to relive the quiet tension, drama and unforgettable moments from some of Preston’s proud snooker past.
1. Snooker at Preston Guild Hall
Snooker returns at the Guild Hall in Preston in 2014 during the Wyldecrest Park Home Players Championship. | Johnston Press
2. Snooker at Preston Guild Hall
The Betfred Premier League match at the Guild Hall, Preston in 2006 | Local Library
3. Snooker at Preston Guild Hall
John Higgins lifts the trophy after winning the 1999 Grand Prix Snooker Tournament in the Guild Hall in Preston | Local Library
4. Snooker at Preston Guild Hall
Ding Jun-Hui in action at the Betfred Premier League match at the Guild Hall, Preston in 2006 | Local Library