Heritage Open Days returns this September with thousands of free events and experiences taking place across England. Each year, millions of people take part in a nationwide celebration of their heritage, community and history. The festival is brought to you by the National Trust and supported by Postcode Lottery players, with an exciting programme of events delivered locally by thousands of organisations, community groups and volunteers.
The festival will feature thousands of events and activities where visitors can:
- See the British Library’s robotic book retrieval cranes in action in Leeds.
- Become a codebreaking recruit during an interactive family day at Bletchley Park.
- Enjoy free tickets to a Wigan Athletic match.
- Share a traditional Langar lunch at Sikh Museum Northampton and SGSS Gurdwara.
- Discover life in an Iron Age settlement at Chysauster Ancient Village.
- Exploring the mysteries of Halliggye Fogou.
- Take part in an immersive historic trial at Crime Unlocked.
Find out more
- Press gallery - Access further images and contact information
- Browse our event directory - Feeling inspired? Find out what's on near you!
- Case studies - Hear more from local organisers
- Festival Impact Review 2025 - Find out more about what happened last year