Running from 12 to 21 September, Heritage Open Days will be celebrated across the district’s towns and villages, showcasing sites that are not usually open to the pubic or normally charge an entry fee, with more than 50 free events and openings taking place. There is also the opportunity to join a variety of themed guided walks around Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth.

Local attractions including the Lord Leycester, Kenilworth Castle, Packwood House, Baddesley Clinton, and Bagot’s Castle will be offering free admission at limited times. There is also the opportunity to tour Leamington Town Hall, the Victorian ringing room at the Collegiate Church of St Mary and St Michael’s Place, Warwick to hear about the restoration project taking place at the former mediaeval Leper Hospital.

Many of the district’s churches will also be open with volunteers on hand to show visitors around their stunning interiors designed by the leading architects and artists of the day.

Ever popular is the Warwickshire County Record Office who will be offering visitors the chance to visit their strong rooms and find out how the county’s most precious documents are cared for.

Robert Eyre Senior Archivist commented:

“We are very pleased to support Heritage Open Days every year. There is more than 900 years of local history within our vaults waiting to be discovered. We urge visitors to book early to avoid disappointment.”

Councillor Naveen Tangri, Chairman of Warwick District Council added;

“The Council is proud to support and coordinate the district’s annual Heritage Open Days Festival. This is a record year for events taking place with more opportunities than ever for people to explore and find out more about our area’s deep-rooted history and culture and best of all it’s all for free.” “This wonderful festival couldn’t happen without the support of a large number of volunteers who have given up their time to organise the incredible range of activities, events and openings taking place.”

A guide listing all the venues taking part and opening times is available from libraries and visitor information centres. Further information is available on the Heritage Open Days and Warwick District Council websites.