HERITAGE venues across Worcester are set to open their doors free of charge to celebrate the city’s cultural history.
More than one million visitors nationwide will join in with Heritage Open Days which takes place from tomorrow (Thursday) to Sunday (September 14) and aims to cover historical periods and topics throughout the country.
Supported by Worcester Heritage Partnership Group, the event offers free access to places which normally charge for admission or are not regularly open to the public.
Helen Large, chair of the partnership group, said: “Heritage Open Days is a chance to discover our heritage treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities that bring local history and culture to life.
“Free access means it’s a great opportunity for all Worcester residents to enjoy the city’s rich and diverse heritage.
“There is a fantastic programme of events and activities on offer across our heritage venues which highlight how much this city has to be proud of.”
Here are some of the highlights to look forward to over the course of the event:
The Infirmary, Castle Street, Saturday September 13. 11am-4pm: Guided tours at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm. Find out about nursing past and present inside Mulberry House, the former Nurse’s home at The Infirmary built in 1897.
Tudor House, Friar Street, Saturday September 13 – 10am-4pm: Vintage Motorcycles and Secret Places. Short tours of the attics and Medieval cellar never normally open to the public. Vintage motorcycles also on display along with children’s activities.
St Swithun’s Church, The Trinity, Saturday September 13 – 12pm-4pm: Heritage Open Day. Music making, bell ringing, stone carving or organ playing for all ages. Guided tours to learn about the history of Worcester are also available.
Museum of Freemasonry, Rainbow Hill, Saturday September 13 and Sunday September 14 – 10am-4pm. A chance to see masonic jewels, regalia and ephemera as well as being able to see inside the Temple. Tea, coffee and biscuits all available.
The Commandery, Sidbury, Sunday September 14 – 1.30pm-5pm: Tours and talks from 2pm-4pm. Discover the history of The Commandery through a series of free guided talks and tours with a chance to view some of the archaeology found onsite.
More information about Heritage Open Days can be found by visiting www.heritageopendays.org.uk or the individual venue’s website.
