Department for Culture Media and Sport
heritage open days
Heritage Open Days celebrates England's fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission.
Every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.
Free of charge and literally on people's doorstep, Heritage Open Days is an event for everyone, whatever their background, age and ability.
Co-ordinated by the Civic Trust ,and made possible by funding and support from English Heritage the event thrives on the enthusiasm and expertise of local people. Thousands of volunteers from all walks of life share their knowledge and memories with some 800,000 visitors every year, making Heritage Open Days England's largest voluntary cultural event.
Heritage Open Days was established in 1994 as England's contribution to European Heritage Days, in which 48 countries now take part.
London Open House
The capital stages an independent event, London Open House, which takes place on a different weekend in September. We take part by offering members of the public the chance to see the rooms in which our Ministers work - these contain works of art from the Government Art Collection and Crafts Council.
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