This September, local residents have the opportunity to take part in the country’s largest celebration of heritage.
Heritage Open Days is returning with its biggest programme in the festival’s 31-year history. From Friday 12th to Sun 21st September, more than 5,800 free events will be held across England.
The festival, organised by the National Trust and supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, celebrates the people, places and stories that shape England’s history. Many sites that usually charge for admission will be opening their doors for free, and some will be offering behind-the-scenes tours and activities that are rarely available to the public. Below are details of several events taking place locally.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal: The Masons’ Story
Visitors can explore the heritage of one of Yorkshire’s most important landmarks through demonstrations and guided tours.
Masonry Demonstrations
Discover the traditional skills used by the stonemasons who care for the abbey and estate. Live demonstrations will show the tools and methods employed, and there will be opportunities to try masonry work under supervision.
- Tuesday 16 September, 11am–2pm, by the Abbey ruins
- Thursday 18 September, 11am–2pm, at Fountains Mill
Masons’ Marks Tour
Around 400 distinctive masons’ marks have been found within the abbey cloister. This guided tour offers the chance to investigate these intriguing carvings using torches provided by the organisers. Visitors may also bring a notebook.
- Tuesday 16 September and Thursday 18 September, 1.30–2.30pm
- Meeting point: Porter’s Lodge (please arrive by 1.25pm)
Advance booking is required – reserve your place online here.
Clifton Castle Heritage Tour
Clifton Castle, a Georgian house located two miles north of Masham, will be open for guided tours of its interiors, including furniture, paintings, porcelain, and silver dating back to the 17th century. Visitors will also be able to explore the grounds and riverside walks.
Friday 12 September, tours at 11am and 2pm
Entrance via the main drive gates on the Masham to Richmond road
Booking is required by contacting Strutt & Parker. Please email: northallerton@struttandparker.com or call 01609 350017.
How Stean Gorge, Lofthouse
Usually a paid attraction, How Stean Gorge will be free to explore between 15th and 19th September. This limestone ravine, designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, offers visitors the chance to explore caves and tunnels, as well as footpaths around the gorge.
Open daily 9am–5pm
Free admission, no booking required
Safety equipment (hard hats) will be provided at the entrance
Visitors are advised to bring wellington boots and a torch if they plan to enter the caves. The gorge café, with views across Nidderdale, will also be open. Please call 01423 755666 if you have any queries.
Ripon Town Hall Open Day
On Thursday 18th September, Ripon Town Hall will open its doors for guided tours of the Mayor’s Parlour, a room not normally accessible to the public.
Tours will be led by Ripon’s Bellman, Geoffrey Johnson, who will share stories about the city’s civic heritage and traditions.
Tours at 10.00am, 11.30am, and 1.00pm
No booking required
Step-free access and accessible toilets available
Further Information
These are only a few of the events taking place locally. Explore the full programme on the Heritage Open Days website: www.heritageopendays.org.uk/whats-on
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