Every year, Heritage Open Days offers free access to heritage events and activities across England. It’s the largest festival of history and culture in the country.
From 6-15 September, you’ll have the chance to explore hidden places and try out new experiences – and it won’t cost you a penny.
The theme for this 30th anniversary year is “routes, networks and connections” which encourages all those who take part in the festival to celebrate what connects us – be that roads, ideas or music.
The programme is packed with tours, walks, exhibitions and more. With so much on offer, you’re bound to find something that takes your fancy.
Read on to discover five incredible events and venues that are included in the Heritage Open Days programme in 2024.
1. Medical mystery tour of Salisbury
If you like the sound of a guided city tour with a twist, look no further.
On Friday 6 September, ArtCare, which manages the history collections and archives at Salisbury District Hospital, is offering unique tours focusing on medicine, care, and public health.
As you walk the streets of this beautiful cathedral city, your guide will regale you with stories covering over 800 years of history. Expect tales of Florence Nightingale, Turkish baths, medicine during wartime and even ghosts!
This medical mystery tour is full of fascinating facts, and you’ll be encouraged to see Salisbury’s many famous landmarks from a completely new perspective.
The tour runs for a generous two hours and there’s plenty to see and do in and around the city if you’re keen to make a full day of your visit. Salisbury Cathedral is a must-see and nearby, Salisbury Museum houses an impressive collection of archaeological objects and fine art.
2. Oxburgh Estate in Norfolk
On Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September, you can visit this striking National Trust property free of charge.
Home to the Bedingfield family for 500 years, the Oxburgh Estate is an imposing brick manor house surrounded by a tranquil moat – home to several resident swans.
Built in 1482, this family house is steeped in history. From religious persecution to near dereliction, Oxburgh holds many stories.
After you’ve meandered around the Victorian Gothic interiors, you might like to take a stroll through the beautiful and varied gardens. If you’re feeling energetic, follow one of the marked walks through woodland and along the River Gadder.
As part of the Heritage Open Days festival, the estate is granting visitors access to curious collections not usually on display to the public. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy wonderful views from the gatehouse roof.
3. Celebration of 135 years of brass band music in the Forest of Dean
If you’re a music fan, this celebration of 135 years of brass band music from the village of Pillowell could be a programme highlight.
The Pillowell Silver Band has been entertaining in the local area since 1889. In 2015, the band qualified to feature in the National Finals of the Brass Band Organisation and they’re frequently invited to play at local venues and events.
On Friday 6 September, Pillowell Silver Band will put on a special performance in the forest for Heritage Open Days. Pop along to enjoy a selection of music from their 135-year history.
4. An exhibition of travel in coaching times at the Museum of the Horse in Nottinghamshire
If you’re eager to immerse yourself in the theme for this year’s festival – “routes, networks and connections” – this illustrated talk on the history of roads and travel in coaching times is a great choice.
The Museum of the Horse in Tuxford houses an impressive exhibition on how the coaching system developed. You can view many of the day-to-day items that were used on the roads during this time and learn all about pack horses, posting houses, and more.
The talk will take place at 2 pm on Sunday 15 September. If you can’t make this, you can still enjoy all the museum has to offer throughout Heritage Open Days, from Friday 6 to Sunday 15 September.
5. Birkheads Secret Gardens
What better way to spend a sunny early-autumn day than wandering through a beautiful English garden?
Birkheads Secret Gardens is a former mining site that has been transformed into a rural haven of wildlife for locals and tourists alike.
You could easily while away several hours here as there’s plenty to explore – formal gardens, a wildflower meadow, a meditation area, and plenty more.
Explore at your own pace or book a tour between Friday 6 to Sunday 15 September.
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This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
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