The country’s largest festival of history and culture returns this September with a packed programme of free events with the theme of Creativity Unwrapped. Brought to you by the National Trust, support by the People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of organisations and volunteers, Heritage Open Days bring people together to celebrate history, heritage and community.
From historic houses to factories, museums to music halls, formal gardens to graveyards, places, spaces and communities across the country will again host free events this autumn. Hundreds of events will adopt this year’s theme, Creativity Unwrapped, sharing England’s colourful history of creativity. The festival will celebrate the experts and enthusiastic amateurs whose passions and skills and something special to your Septembers.
Liam Montgomery, Heritage Open Days Marketing and Projects Manager, says: “Whether it’s art, music, writing or another outlet, creativity moves us and shapes our history and culture. We’re excited to put the spotlight on the people and places who give England’s heritage the X-factor and inspire festival goers to engage with thousands of years of creativity.”
Some of the attractions taking part for the first time this year include Lampert Hall in Northampton and London’s Bus Museum. Many of the sites in the UK that usually charge, will be opening their doors for free and places that aren’t open to the public will also be taking part. Highlights for 2023 include the National Holocaust Centre and Museum in Nottinghamshire.
Founded in 1994, Heritage Open Days has captured imaginations for almost 30 years. Last year, more than 2150 organisers and 43500 volunteers ran nearly 5000 events across the country, attracting one million visits. Visit heritageopendays.org.uk to plan your heritage adventures today and enjoy a free festival of discovery.
