HISTORY will come alive for people across Worcestershire as some of the area’s most popular heritage sites are set to open their doors for free.

People can make the most of their area thanks to the national Heritage Open Days project which runs from today until Sunday, September 9.

Many of Worcestershire’s favourite historic sites will be holding special events across the weekend to give residents a look at the county’s fascinating history. Katja Condy, manager of Heritage Open Days, said: “It offers a unique chance to discover secret places and hidden history on your doorstep.

“With every event completely free, it’s a great family day out and the perfect way to celebrate the end of a spectacular summer.” Highlights from the four days are included below. A full list of events including times and contact details can be found by logging on to www.heritageopendays.org.uk.

l Visitors to the County Museum at Hartlebury Castle on Saturday and Sunday will get a chance to access areas usually off limits as well as watch the museum’s blacksmith in action. MGB sports cars will be on display on Saturday while Sunday will feature classic and vintage cars. Events take place from 11am to 5pm on both days.

l Children will be able to follow the Tudor rat trail at Tudor House Museum on Saturday as well as try on clothes and play games from the era. Back by popular demand will be the vintage and classic motorbikes display. The museum will be open from 10am to 4pm.

l The Worcester Story will be running tours through the city today and tomorrow between 4pm and 5.30pm. People should pre-book by calling 07949 222137 or e-mailing discoverhistory @aol.com.

l Worcester Cathedral will hold an open day and tours on Saturday from 10am to 4.30pm. The cathedral tour will be held at 11am and 2.30pm, Old Bishop’s Palace tour will take place 11am and 3.30pm with a recital held at 12 noon.

l Tours of Worcester Masonic Centre and Museum of Freemasonry will be taking place today from 10am to 12pm and Saturday from 10am to 5pm. Stourport Masonic Hall will be holding tours of the temple on Saturday from 10am to 3pm and holding an open day on Sunday from 10am to 4pm .

l People can enjoy free entry to the National Trust properties Hanbury Hall on Saturday from 11am to 5pm, Croome Park on Saturday and Sunday 11am to 3pm and the Greyfriars on Saturday from 1pm to 5pm.

l Avon Navigation Trust will be running free boat trips every hour picking up from the ferry point at the end of King George’s field, Pershore tomorrow and Saturday 9am and 5pm.

l Worcestershire Wildlife Trust will be holding a tour through Tiddesley Wood, near Pershore, tomorrow at 11am and 2pm. People are being asked to pre-book by e-mailing bob@tiddesley.org.uk or calling 01386 556685.

l In Stourport, the canal basins, yacht club, St Michael’s Church, St Bartholomew’s Church and Church House, Stourport Methodist Church and Stourport Masonic Hall will be taking part. Attractions include canal boat trips and guided walks of the basins. Burlish Top nature reserve and Stourport’s mini museum, Discover Stourport, will also be open. For more information, visit stourporttown.co.uk.

l In Pershore, people can take a closer look at the Abbey and Abbey Tower, the Baptist Church, Number 8 community arts Centre, Croome Court and exhibitions in Pershore Town Hall and Heritage Centre tomorrow and Saturday.

l In Evesham, a highlight will be the bell tower being open from 12pm to 4pm on Sunday giving people a chance to take a look at the ringing chamber which is crammed with fascinating historic souvenirs including centuries-old graffiti inscribed by bellringers. Donations towards maintenance works are welcomed.