Heritage Open Days 2026

Heritage Open Days returns this September (11 - 20) 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 and volunteers.

It’s all about doorstep discovery – whether you’re stepping into a cold war bunker or a crematorium, a museum or a mandir, a lido or a lighthouse, a canal boat or a colliery, a signal box or a submarine. The festival offers thousands of free, community-led events all over England, with endless opportunity for discovering something new.

From working lives to cherished rituals, many events will focus in on this year’s festival theme, ‘Everyday Histories’ presented by leading family history website Findmypast. Organisers are invited to explore the varied and often overlooked stories of ordinary working people and their daily lives. From factory floors, workhouses and high streets to kitchens, schools, and community centres, this theme shines a light on working-class voices, local superheroes and the part-of-the-furniture places that have quietly shaped England’s heritage.

Learn more about the national festival and the 2026 theme here

Heritage Hunters Competition

Enter the competition by clicking the link below (you must be over 18 to enter):

CLICK HERE TO LOG YOUR LATEST FIND 

Explore This Years Events

More information coming soon....

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