Historic sites in South Gloucestershire will open their doors to members of the public between 6-15 September for Heritage Open Days 2024.
The scheme provides free entry to heritage sites across the area and allows people to discover the hidden, historical treasures and attractions of South Gloucestershire.
Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture. It brings together over 2,500 organisations, 5,000 events, and 40,000 volunteers. Every year in September, places across the country open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community, and history.
Residents and visitors are invited to explore South Gloucestershire’s rich mining history at Ram Hill and Brandy Bottom Collieries and look around some of the district’s most loved sites and attractions, such as Dyrham Park, Kingswood Heritage Museum, and Winterbourne Medieval Barn.
Heritage walks are being hosted by Yate and District Heritage Centre, and Thornbury and District Museum, with Thornbury Town Hall opening its doors and offering guided tours. Members of the public can also climb the 133 steps to the top of St. Mary’s Church Tower in Thornbury to enjoy panoramic views of the local area.
Warmley Signal Box and Community Garden will provide an opportunity to experience how a vintage signal box operated with demonstrations by ex-railway workers, and Aerospace Bristol will allow access to their reserve collection and hidden features of the historic site. There is something for everyone, with multiple venues across the district opening their doors to the public.
South Gloucestershire Council cabinet member and heritage champion, councillor Chris Willmore said: “We are thrilled to invite everyone to this year’s Heritage Open Days. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover the rich heritage of South Gloucestershire, with activities and tours that cater for all ages and interests. It’s also a chance to meet some of the amazing people and volunteers who cherish and protect our local heritage for future generations. I encourage people to attend and celebrate our fascinating local history which covers everything from ancient deer parks to historic colliery sites; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Some Heritage Open Day tour and events must be booked in advance, for full details of all activities including dates, times and venues, can be found at www.southglos.gov.uk/heritageopendays
