Every year for ten days in September, Heritage Open Days brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. Stories are told, traditions explored, and histories brought to life. It offers the public a chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all FREE.
The festival is supported by the National Trust and supported by Postcode Lottery players, with an exciting programme of events delivered locally by thousands of organisations, community groups and volunteers.
This year’s theme, Everyday Histories, is presented by Findmypast and celebrates the working lives and daily routines that have shaped the places around us.
In Rotherham the local District Civic Society has organised a number of free guided tours, focusing on Forge Island, Clifton Park, The Crofts as well as the Discovering Rotherham guided tour, which the volunteers run regularly.
Also in the town centre, guided tours are being organised for Rotherham Minster, the Town Hall and the Chapel on the Bridge.
At Wentworth Woodhouse, families and garden-lovers alike can enjoy a day in the gardens of the grade-I listed mansion and discover many hidden delights, from the sweeping views from the Ha-Ha and South Terrace to the wildflower meadow – so much awaits. The Forest of Bewilderment natural play area is a haven for little explorers and their families with plenty of natural play areas to enjoy, and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to join in the family fun.
All of Rotherham's Heritage Open Days can be found on the Visit Rotherham events page.
Founded in 1994, Heritage Open Days has been making history and culture more accessible for more than three decades. Last year over 2,500 organisers and 44,200 volunteers ran 5,879 events across the country, attracting over one million visits. Around one-quarter of visitors had not visited a heritage site/event in the past year while 83% of festival-goers said their visit made them more proud of their local area.
Laura Chow, Head of Charities at Postcode Lottery, said: “It is fantastic that Postcode Lottery players have been supporting Heritage Open Days for 14 years, allowing millions of people to explore England’s rich heritage for free. This year’s theme of ‘Everyday Histories’ shines a light on the workers who helped shape the country we know today and are often missing from history books. Through an exciting programme of special events, experiences and activities, visitors will have the chance to discover more about these unsung heroes and their extraordinary lives!”
Heritage Open Days website
Images: Rotherham Minster & St Paul's Masbrough / Rotherham Distric Civic Society
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