Buildings and sites across Bath and North East Somerset will open to the public later this week as part of England’s largest festival of history and culture.
Touring the Local History Centre – Lansdown | Photo © B&NES Council
Organised by the National Trust, Heritage Open Days gives families free access to museums, galleries, stately homes, science labs and community spaces.
It’s an opportunity to appreciate the locations, including hidden gems, right on your doorstep without paying a penny.
Metro Mayor Dan Norris will get the opportunity to explore Unit 14, Midsomer Norton’s new community space funded by a £19,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority today, Wednesday 7th September, ahead of the open days.
The colourful community centre, opposite South Road Car Park, is one of 38 heritage sites in Bath and NE Somerset opening its doors for free from Friday 9th September to Sunday 18th September. Across the region, 66 free events have been planned in the 10-day period.
The Metro Mayor, who is running an Explore Local campaign, will discover the region’s mining heritage when he meets volunteers from Somerset Coalfield Life at their pop-up exhibition and try his hand at letterpress printing and corn crafting when he meets Nick Hand from Bristol’s Letterpress Collective and volunteer Susan Burnett.
Other confirmed open events include the opening of a brand-new community café at Bath Elim Church on Charlotte Street and the chance to explore Keynsham’s industrial history at the Grade II listed Albert Mill building.
Events have been designed to offer people a chance to see another side to their communities, says Midsomer Norton Trust Engagement Coordinator Beth Whalley, who has helped organise all the fun, free events in the Midsomer Norton area, and will be showing the Mayor round on the day.
Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “The festival is just around the corner, and it’s fantastic to see Bath and NE Somerset is putting on an incredible 38 events this year with a brilliant mix of historical and cultural sites to explore.
“We’ve got so much to be proud of and shout about here in the West of England. So whether it’s an illustrated scamper through the fascinating history of the Museum of Bath at Work building, learning how a real-life mill works at Saltford Brass Mill or history and hospitality galore at the Sewing-Sanctuary in Midsomer Norton, there really is something for everyone this year.
“What better time than now for locals to get out and rediscover our amazing region.”
Speaking about the visit, Midsomer Norton Trust Engagement Coordinator Beth Whalley added: “We’re thrilled to be working with so many different community groups and artists to showcase the great things we have to offer in Midsomer Norton – from established heritage venues like the Somerset and Dorset Railway, to brand new destinations like Sewing-Sanctuary – and the wider region. Our aim is to encourage people to get out, explore, and see their local area through fresh eyes.”
Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “Heritage Open Days are a great opportunity to explore the history and heritage on your doorstep, and discover new places.
“There’s something for everyone, from swimming in the newly restored Cleveland Pools, to seeing Victorian spa equipment at the Local History Centre in Lansdown, enjoying a gala afternoon in Sydney Gardens, exploring the Roman Baths’ new Clore Learning Centre, or taking a theatre walk around Keynsham.”
Advance booking is essential for some venues. Check the Heritage Open Days website for opening dates and times.
