Discover Heritage Open Days 2016

‘Treasure your treasures!’ is the clarion call for Heritage Open Days 2016 as organisers make history matter in the UK’s biggest annual grassroots celebration of cultural heritage.

Across England, bands of bell ringers will ring the changes in church towers and cathedrals, costumed interpreters will bring to life historical heroes and heroines, stories will be shared, doors to hidden places unbolted and gates to secret gardens flung open.

Over 45,000 people will step up to the mark to give their time, creativity and skills in a cavalcade of free walks, talks, tours, open houses, exhibitions, performances and demonstrations. 

Patron Loyd Grossman, explains, 'Heritage Open Days and its army of volunteers play an important role in championing our wonderfully diverse local heritage, opening up doors and keeping access free for these very special four days every year. Don’t miss this once-a-year chance to be a tourist in your own town and treasure the treasures on your doorstep.'

Clara Govier, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: 'This is the second year that players have supported Heritage Open Days, which continues to grow, not only in the number of events, but the diversity and quality of activities right across England. We look forward to seeing thousands of people sharing the hidden histories on their doorstep and making a difference to their communities this September.'

Heritage Open Days 2016 takes place Thursday 8-Sunday 11 September. It is the largest heritage festival in the country; in 2015, over 4,800 events welcomed more than three million visitors across England. Every single Heritage Open Days event is free, including access to many sites that usually charge for admission. Find out what's on near you at www.heritageopendays.org.uk.

Pictured: Loyd Grossman and Bettany Hughes help launch #TreasureYourTreasures at the Heritage Open Days launch, held at RIBA in July. © Rahil Ahmad.