Why we take part
Participating in Heritage Open Days is rewarding, fun, and inspiring. It gives us the chance to share the reserve, its history, and its wildlife with a diverse range of visitors, some of whom might not usually attend our events.
The experience has strengthened our volunteer community, allowed us to try creative, themed activities, and provided a structured format that benefits all our seasonal events. Seeing children and adults enjoy it all, along with volunteers and ex-students contributing, is genuinely fulfilling. Overall, Heritage Open Days are about community engagement, learning, and enjoyment. They highlight the work we do at Dobcroft, encourage participation in our projects, and leave visitors and volunteers alike with memorable, happy experiences.
Helping at the event is so rewarding. I got to share my knowledge about the reserve and meet lots of new people.
What we do for HODs
As event organiser for Dobcroft Nature Reserve, my role involves planning, organising, and promoting our participation. Eight other members of staff are involved in varying degrees, and on the day, we have c.20 dedicated volunteers, helping with everything from marshalling and guiding to crafts, baking, cooking, and talking to visitors.
Our approach
We coordinate all aspects of the event to ensure it’s enjoyable, accessible, and informative for everyone who comes along. In an area of high deprivation, bringing the community together, and from all walks of life is key. We aim to ensure everyone has access to free activities and food, making it fun while educational. Giving visitors a chance to connect with nature and learn about conservation.
Adding interest to engage visitors
We run family-oriented events that are suitable for all ages with activities including:
- Crafts and hands-on activities for children and adults.
- Guided walks and talks highlighting the reserve’s wildlife, nature, and heritage.
- Food and information stands.
- Occasionally, small exhibitions related to local history or conservation.
What a fantastic day! The Lego area kept the kids entertained for hours, and I learned so much about the reserve’s history.
The difference it makes
We’ve found that participating in Heritage Open Days (HODs) has had a real impact…
- Working with new people and recruiting volunteers: The event attracts visitors who might not usually come to our activities, some of whom become interested in volunteering or attending other events. This helps us expand our volunteer base and community connections.
Best bits
There are always lots of highlights during HODs, but some moments really make me smile…
- This year the Lego play area tied to our architecture and bricks theme was a huge hit! The kids loved it— and some adults too. I think a few of them would have happily stayed all day building.
- Seeing past students return is particularly rewarding. One of our ex-students, now a full-time ecologist, came back to volunteer and give a talk. Moments like this, watching them share their knowledge and seeing the enjoyment on visitors’ faces, are very special.
- Themed volunteer costumes are always fun. One of our volunteers dresses in theme every year, and it’s always exciting to see what they’ll come up with. Some of our regular visitors look forward to this every year—it’s become part of the tradition.
- General enjoyment and engagement—nothing beats seeing people of all ages having fun, learning, and connecting with nature and history at Dobcroft Nature Reserve. That’s what makes it all worthwhile.
Overcoming challenges
Over the years, I’ve learnt to build in Plan B, and so many people want to help, I don’t have to do everything. And at the end of the day embracing it and not worrying about the things that can go wrong.
These are our solutions to some practical challenges:
- The weather! – We plan flexible activities that can move under cover if needed, and have contingency plans for outdoor events.
- Time and resources – We use a general event format that can be adapted for all our major seasonal events, allowing planning to be efficient while keeping creativity and engagement high. We have a small budget built in our finances for the year for publicity and marketing, while materials and food are funded through projects and donations, for example – this year all our Lego came free via InKindDirect. Also, the resources provided by the national HODs team are invaluable.
A Lego activity was a highlight of the team's creative programming this year, made possible by in-kind support.
Steph’s Top Tips
- Start with the theme! – Having a clear theme each year makes planning easier and sparks creativity for activities, displays, and engagement ideas. It gives your event focus, helps attract a diverse audience, and can make even small touches—like costumes, crafts, or play areas—really memorable.
- Involve your volunteers early and play to their strengths – They often bring brilliant ideas and energy that make the event a success.
- Most importantly, have fun! – Heritage Open Days are about sharing your space, your story, and your passion with the community, so enjoy the experience as much as your visitors will.
Images from: The Intact Centre
Inspired?! Find out more…
- The Intact Centre – Dobcroft Nature Reserve
- More case studies - Meet other local organisers
- Get involved - Taking part in Heritage Open Days