The Civic Trust Heritage Open Days

Established in 1994, this event is England’s contribution to European Heritage Days, in which 48 countries take part. Celebrating England’s architecture and culture, these Open Days allow visitors free access to interesting, and often curious, properties that are normally either closed or charge entrance. Tours, events and activities focussing on local architecture and culture also take place. Organised by volunteers for local people, and with support and funding from English Heritage, the Open Days attract some 800,000 visitors each year.

From tunnels to temples and follies to factories, the variety of places is endless – churches, industrial sites, castles, windmills, town halls, offices, and contemporary buildings all figure in the list of open properties.

The event directory, listing all participating properties, appears this month – log onto www.heritageopendays.org.uk to discover a venue near you or ring 020 7930 0914 or write to The Civic Trust, 17 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AW. In addition, London holds its own special event, London Open House, on the 20th and 21st September. Details can be found on www.londonopenhouse.org or from the previous contact details.