Every September thousands of volunteers across England organise events to celebrate our fantastic history and culture. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
We love them because they often offer a “behind the scenes” look at buildings not open at other times of the year, accompanied by insights from local people with a wealth of knowledge and anecdotes.
Heritage Open Days run from 8th-17th September this year.
Established in 1994, Heritage Open Days is England’s contribution to the European Heritage Days and has since grown into the country’s largest community heritage festival with over 5,000 events this year.
And It’ll be no surprise that our area has plenty to offer.
St Anne’s Church Oxenhall has a fascinating history going back over 1,000 years, on the weekend of 8/9 September the church will be open from 10am to 5pm with refreshments available. Ask the bus driver for the Oxehnall Turn, midway between the Kings Arms and Kilcot Inn on the Ross Road, The church is a very pleasant 20 minute walk down the quiet lane.
Newent Market House has been under wraps getting some much needed TLC for the early part of 2023. Come and find out more about the renovations and the 3,000 year history of settlement in the area. Open various afternoons check the HOD’s website or contact Ginny James 01531 821904 for more details.
Ledbury has absolutely loads going on! There are a huge range of buildings open from the cemetery chapel off New Street, the Barrett Browning Institute (the clock tower building), Masters House, Old Grammar School, Burgage Hall and more.
If you haven’t visited the Painted Room that makes a fascinating and beautiful way to spend an hour.
Most venues are within a few yards of the bus stop at the Market House (which of course is open too.
And as well as tours there are a great series of events. A repair shop with a difference, live mediaeval music, the opportunity to view the county Doomsday Book to name just a few.
For full details of the programme in Ledbury pick up a leaflet from the TIC or visit the HOD’s website.
The HODs website has full details of all events: heritageopendays.org.uk/ and is well worth keeping an eye on, as more events are being listed all the time.
Our area is steeped in history and culture, so let’s make the most of this opportunity to get and learn a little more about the treasures on our doorsteps.
