Heritage Open Days

Thousands of buildings and places across England will be throwing their doors open free of charge for Heritage Open Days 2008, Thursday 11 to Sunday 14 September. Co-ordinated by the Civic Trust and supported by English Heritage, this annual celebration of architecture, history and culture spans fifty counties from Kent to Cumbria, with all major cities, towns and hundreds of villages, bringing curiosity, discovery and enjoyment right onto people’s doorsteps. With more than 3,500 properties of every style, period, design and function and a great variety of associated events and activities, Heritage Open Days is England’s largest free cultural event, promising fascinating insights and fresh inspirations to everyone, whatever their age or background, interest or taste. More than 35,000 local volunteers from all walks of life – civic society members, property owners, estate managers, conservation officers, company directors, tourism managers and education officers – will be contributing their time and enthusiasm to make this national event happen, while up 1 million visitors are expected to make the most of the free invitation this year. Events are taking place between Thursday 11 and Sunday 14 September. For more information on times and pre-booking details please check the Heritage Open Days website at www.heritageopendays.org. The online directory will be available from mid-July. You can also ring the Heritage Open Days information line on 020 7539 7907 (lines open 1 August – 12 September, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm).