This year’s event, which is part of England’s biggest heritage festival will take place over two weekends 6-9 and 13-16 September with a record fifty venues taking part.

New participants for 2018 include, Landor House in Warwick, the current home of King’s High School, the newly refurbished Old Shire Hall and Judges’ House, the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and St Mary Immaculate RC Church where JRR Tolkien was married. Other highlights are a World War I walk around Kenilworth, guided tours of Leamington’s buildings, parks and Pump Rooms and an opportunity to visit the archives at the County Records Office and Museum. Many of the district’s churches will be open with volunteers on hand to show visitors around their fascinating interiors designed by the leading architects and artists of the day. Other popular local attractions including Packwood House, Baddesley Clinton House, Lord Leycester Hospital, Hill Close Gardens and Bagot’s Castle will be offering free admission at limited times* over the weekend.

The Chairman of Warwick District Council, Councillor Stephen Cross commented:

“As this year’s event takes place over two weekends, there is twice as much time for people to get out and about and discover a wealth of local history and better still, it’s all for free!  I would like to thank the many volunteers who work so hard to make this very special event possible.”

A booklet listing all the venues taking part and opening times is available from libraries and visitor information centres.