The Heritage Open Days festival is back, giving you the chance to explore the region's history and heritage for free.
For the first time in the festival’s history, some venues are taking a digital approach by placing activities and virtual tours online as a result of the coronavirus pandemic- but some in-person tours will also be taking place
Annie Reilly, Head of Producing for the festival, said: “Heritage Open Days is about connecting people so we can share in the amazing stories of the places, spaces, nature, heritage and history around us.
“We have seen some ingenious approaches to culture going digital, from virtual tours and online galleries to up-close explorations of artefacts and objects, through to workshops and live-streamed debates.
“We’re excited by the potential for HODs, not least of all because so many more people will be able to experience the festival regardless of where they are in the country.”
Here are some of the best events taking place in Worcestershire between the 11-20th September.
Worcester Cathedral at night, College Yard
When: Saturday 12 September at 6:15pm
(Photo: Geograph/ Philip Halling)
If you live locally, you’re likely to have visited or walked by the historic Worcester Cathedral- but have you explore it at night?
This unique event lets you explore the Cathedral by candlelight- you even get to enjoy a glass of wine in the medieval cloisters.
There is no need to pre-book, but you can learn more about the event on the Worcester Cathedral website.
The Tudor House Museum, Upton-upon-Severn
When: Saturday 12th and 19th September between 1:30-4:30.
(Credit: Google Maps)
If you haven’t already visited the Tudor House Museum, Heritage Open Days is a great day to do so.
The museum contains a collection of miniature pottery and historic household items, including early attempts at vacuum cleaners.
Free leaflets will also be made available to visitors in self-guided visits to the Upton Ham Nature Reserve.
Suckley Church, Worcester
When: 11-20 September
(Photo: Geograph, Philip Halling)
Curious to learn more about this 12th century church?
This online event tells the story of people who have worked and worshipped in this church.
While this is a virtual event, the church is open daily in daylight hours for you to visit.
Check the Heritage Open Days website to access the virtual events.
The Guildhall Hidden Treasures, Guildhall, Worcester
When: Saturday 19th September- 9:30am-4pm
Have you ever walked by this stunning building and wondered about its history?
The Guildhall dates back to 1721 and once housed a prison.
This is your opportunity to explore the former courts of justice and its holding cells.
This week only, visitors will get free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or which usually charge for admission.
Find out more about this event online.
St Mary’s Church, Hanley Castle, Worcester
When: 12 September: 10am-5pm
13 September: 12pm - 5pm
Saturday 19 September: 10.00am - 5pm
Sunday 20 September: 12pm - 5pm
(Facebook/@friendshanleycastle)
This event lets you explore the history of the area around St Mary’s Church.
There are numerous trails around the church that you can explore and learn more about, from the wildlife in the area to the very stones that the church is built with.
Want to learn more about the church before you visit? Visit the Friends of St Mary’s Church website.
Florence Nightingale 200th Birthday Walk, Malvern
When: 12th September, 10:30am and 7pm
13th September, 10:30am and 6pm
To celebrate the 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale, the Malvern Hills District Council is hosting this free commemorative walk.
You will embark on a guided walking tour around Great Malvern, visiting locations know for using the Water Cure treatment.
You will learn more about where Florence stayed and more about the illnesses that kept her bedridden .
Booking for this event closes on 11 September, so make sure to book online if you wish to attend.
Worcester County Museum, Kidderminster
As part of the festival, Worcester County Museum is posting some great online content to their website and YouTube channel.
A tour video will be posted each day between 11-20th September, showing objects, stories and secrets of items in their collection.
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