Celebrate some of Wiltshire’s unique heritage this September

During September, many buildings open up for the annual Heritage Open Days. Some of these buildings are ones that aren’t usually open to the general public whereas others give people the opportunity to visit an attraction free of charge.

We take a look at some of the highlights of this year’s Heritage Open Days event that you can enjoy here in Wiltshire:

Town Bridge Lock Up, Bradford on Avon

One of the most photographed parts of Bradford on Avon. Set on the old Town Bridge, this is your opportunity to see within the lock up that was used to house any of the town’s prisoners in days gone by. Open all four days of the Heritage Open Days. No booking is required. 

Calne Almshouses

A rare opportunity to see inside the 17th century almshouses within Calne. Open on Saturday 9 September from 2pm-5pm. Tea and cake will also be on offer. 

Chippenham Museum

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Chippenham Museum on Saturday 9 September and explore areas not normally open to the public with one of the museum team. Pre-booking is advised on 01249 705020.

Wiltshire Museum

A chance to visit Wiltshire Museum in Devizes free of charge on Saturday 9 September. See gold from the time of Stonehenge and discover the museum’s many artefacts. With many other historic buildings also opening up in Devizes, you can easily make a day of it.

Crofton Beam Engines

Originally built to supply water to the highest point of the Kennet & Avon Canal, Crofton Beam Engines will be open from Thursday 7 – Sunday 10 September as part of Heritage Open Days. Why not combine it with nearby Wilton Windmill’s open day on the Saturday afternoon?

The Merchant’s House, Marlborough

A fine example of 17th century architecture, The Merchant’s House will be opening its doors on Sunday 10 September. See how people lived in the 17th century and learn about the on-going restoration of this house. 

Arundells, Salisbury

Sir Edward Heath’s Cathedral Close home, Arundells, will be open for Heritage Open Days on Thursday 7 September. Take a look at the extensive art collection, the gifts Sir Edward received over the years and take a wander through the beautiful garden. 

Salisbury Guildhall 

Take a tour of the historic cells and basement of Salisbury Guildhall on Thursday 7 and Friday 8 September. Pre-booking is required. Call 01722 342860 for details. 

Trowbridge Town Hall

Go behind the scenes of Trowbridge Town Hall with a guided tour on Saturday 9 September. Discover the hall’s rich history, what it’s used for now and future plans for it. 

Keep an eye on the Heritage Open Days’ website for further details of these events and for other Heritage Open Day events that are due to take place during this weekend and don’t forget to check out our website for details of other events taking place during this time in Wiltshire. Happy exploring!