• Heritage Open Days Festival returns from 6 – 15 September 2024 
  • National Trust places across the South West will take part
  • Heritage Open Days provides everyone with free access to experiences and events across England at participating places 

England’s largest festival of history and culture, Heritage Open Days, is back from 6 -15 September. Presented by the National Trust, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers, Heritage Open Days (HODs) gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy free access to experiences and events across England.   

The festival brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. Each year places across the country, including many National Trusts sites, throw open their doors to give people the chance to explore, see hidden places and try new experiences for free. 

The theme of the festival this year is ‘Routes, Networks and Connections’ and places cared for by the National Trust are sharing stories of travel, transport and celebrating the ways that people connect. 

Liam Montgomery, Heritage Open Days Marketing & Projects Manager at the National Trust, said:  “The scale and diversity of Heritage Open Days is just incredible – every year thousands of passionate people help visitors to make doorstep discoveries and connect with history and heritage in every part of England. This year though, it will be extra special as we celebrate three decades worth of stories and all the brilliant people and places that have made it, and continue to make it, all possible!”  

Discover a day out with a difference. Here are some of the National Trust Heritage Open Day events happening in the area:  

Arlington Court and Carriage Museum, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September 

Buckland Abbey, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September 

Killerton, Friday 6 September and Saturday 7 September 

Clyston Mill, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays, 6-15 September 

Columbjohn Chapel, open daily, 6-15 September 

Knightshayes, Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September 

Lydford Gorge, Friday 13 and Saturday 14 September 

Header image: Chris Lacey