Heritage Open Days in Bath and North East Somerset

Venues across Bath and North East Somerset will open their doors this September for Heritage Open Days (8-17 September). The nationwide celebration of history and culture is a chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all for free.

Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic & Cultural Sustainable Development, said: “Heritage Open Days are a brilliant opportunity to explore the history and heritage on our doorstep, and see inside fascinating places that are normally closed to the public. There will be open days, guided tours and activities happening all across Bath & North East Somerset, with something for all ages and interests.”

Among the places opening up for Heritage Open Days this year are:

• Local History Store Lansdown­ – Explore weird and wonderful objects, from Victorian spa equipment to Georgian furniture
• Victoria Art Gallery – Go behind the scenes on a tour of the Gallery stores
• Bath Record Office – Discover how Bath’s Guildhall was designed and built, and take a tour of the basement stores
• Roman Baths Clore Learning Centre – Explore the new Learning Centre with its underground Investigation Zone
• Cleveland Pools – Swim in the newly restored Cleveland Pools, Britain’s oldest lido
• Somerset and Dorset Railway – Visit the station, buffet, shop and museum and enjoy a train ride
• Keynsham Makespace – Hear fascinating stories from Keynsham’s past and see exquisite artefacts from the medieval abbey, on show in Keynsham for the first time
• Saltford Brassmill ­– Explore the story of the brass industry, from smelting to export, and discover equipment that sparked the industrial revolution

To find out about all the local venues taking part, visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk or download the Heritage Open Days in Bath & North East Somerset leaflet.

Advance booking is essential for some venues – please check details on the website or in the leaflet to avoid disappointment.