ST John's Church and Wickhamford Manor garden, Evesham's Bell Tower ringing chamber and the Unitarian Chapel in Oat Street are four of the Vale attractions which will be open to the public this weekend as part of Britain's Heritage Open Days.

Organised by the Vale of Evesham Civic Society, the opening is part of a national campaign to persuade more people to appreciate the history on their doorsteps.

On Saturday the owners of Wickhamford Manor have agreed to open their garden from 2pm to 6pm. Teas will be available in the marquee and the adjoining church of St John the Baptist will also be open.

On Sunday, the ringing chamber in the bell tower will be open from 10am to 4pm when stewards will be on hand to provide information about the tower, the bells and the newly-restored carillon.

The council chamber in the town hall and the Unitarian Chapel will also be open on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm for the council chamber and 10.30am to 4.30pm for the chapel.

"It is an ideal opportunity for local people to learn a bit more about the place where they live," said Civic Society secretary David Way.

The Heritage Open Days, which are being billed as England's biggest and most diverse celebration of architecture, history and culture, will also include the Croome Landscape Park on Friday.

There will be four free guided walks through the park. from 11.30am, 1pm, 2.15pm and 3.30pm and will last about 45 minutes.