The Heritage Open Days festival, taking place from 12 to 21 September, will provide visitors with free access to hundreds of England’s tourist attractions. These range from historical sites, museums, to music halls, churches, mandirs, and stately homes. “Architecture” serves as the theme of the 2025 festival, with each participating organisation offering its own interpretation.
Although not all venues have been confirmed, the festival has announced that guests can visit a section of the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh and HMS Wellingon on the Thames. Moreover, festival enthusiasts will be able to explore Air Ambulance bases and the English National Ballet School.
“For many, architecture is about more than just buildings; it’s really all about people, and the ways we interact with the world around us,” said Liam Montgomery, Heritage Open Days marketing and projects manager. “This year’s festival is a great opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of local stories across England. It’s an open invitation to explore, learn, and be inspired by people and place.”
Dates for Open Days vary across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and even London, which has a different schedule. What’s more, every place has also chosen a different name for its local festivals. For example, in England, the festival goes by the name Heritage Open Days and follows the original dates, from 12 to 21 September. Besides the sites taking part, there will also be exhibitions, workshops, and performances for visitors. Some of the locations include St. Mary’s Guildhall in Coventry, Gunby Hall in Lincolnshire, and Chester Castle in Cheshire, among others.
Gunby Hall in Lincolnshire. pic.twitter.com/P0E4loNQqZ
— S.D. Wickett (@essdeewickett) May 17, 2021
In London specifically, the festival is called London Open House and will be held from 13 to 21 September. Those interested can check the London Open House website, where one can find different walking tours or check the different drop-in locations, which include HTA Design (an architectural practice), Number 90 (a restaurant), and Kupfer Project Space (gallery), among other opportunities.
Carrying the name Doors Open Days in Scotland and Open Days in Wales, the festival also includes free visits to the Abbey Strand buildings in Edinburgh and the National Trust’s Penrhyn Castle, which is the UK’s newest addition to UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
In Ireland, the European Heritage Days take place from 13 to 14 September and allow visitors to visit Ulster Hall in Belfast as well as the ruined Dunluce Castle in Portrush.
While visiting every site and participating in the different activities is free, some tickets still need to be booked in advance.
