Heritage sites across the local area will be opening their doors and inviting residents and visitors to explore their unique attractions in mid-September.
A wide range of events and activities will take place in the museums, galleries and heritage sites of Bath and North East Somerset, and at least 20 sites will be opening their doors to the public from Thursday 12th to Sunday 15th September to celebrate Heritage Open Days 2013.
Visitors can see inside a complete Georgian house with restored garden and how it is being used now at No. 4 The Circus, Bath. Discover what happens to your recycled waste during a guided tour at the May Gurney Recycling Depot in Keynsham and investigate the equipment used in historical spas with the St John’s local history store on the Upper Bristol Road, Bath, and the archaeology store on Pixash Lane, near the Recycling Centre in Keynsham.
A wide variety of sites will open across the area providing local residents with access to places they cannot usually explore and giving them the chance to learn more about their local heritage.
Councillor Ben Stevens (Lib-Dem, Widcombe), Cabinet Member for Sustainable Development, said: “Bath & North East Somerset Council is proud to support Heritage Open Days and celebrate our unique places and beautiful surroundings which help create neighbourhoods where people are proud to live.”
Heritage Open Days 2013 includes the opportunity to explore:
- No 4 The Circus, Bath (Friday 13 September; 10am-12pm & 1pm-3pm):
See inside this beautiful house and restored Georgian garden – the first of its kind in Britain.
- St John’s Store, Upper Bristol Road, Bath (Saturday 14 September; 11am-3pm):
Marvel at the range of historical spa equipment, read the original Victorian spa treatment visitor’s book and take a seat in a sedan chair. There will also be a trail for children and a special display of postcards as well as furniture by local craftsmen.
- May Gurney Recycling Depot, Ashmead Lane, Keynsham (Saturday 14 September; 10am-2pm):
Visit behind the scenes to see what happens to your recycling after collection from your home. Discover how Bath & North East Somerset Council’s recycling trucks work and learn about how the items you put in your green boxes, blue bags and food waste containers are sorted for recycling. Guided tours only – places are limited so please book in advance with Council Connect on 01225 394041. This is a working site so visitors must wear sturdy enclosed shoes and bring wet weather clothing.
- Pixash Lane Archaeology Store, Keynsham (Thursday 12 September, 10am-2pm):
Explore archaeological finds from Combe Down Stone Mines and Keynsham including the Roman mosaics and Abbey stonework.
Please note that all children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at these events.
For more details of Heritage Open Days 2013, including listings and the online leaflet please visit Bath & North East Somerset Council’s website www.bathnes.gov.uk/heritageevents or pick up a leaflet in your local library.