Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture, returns in September 2021 with more than 3000 free events.

Thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, local people and visitors will once again be able to explore hidden places and try new experiences in their communities.

New events and activities are being added to the festival directory every day. Many will explore this year’s theme, Edible England, which offers opportunities to learn about food production, celebrate local specialities and uncover the customs and quirks around what we eat and drink. Others will share stories of the places, spaces, and people that traditional history can sometimes overlook. Sarah Holloway, Programme Manager for Heritage Open Days, said:

“Taking part in Heritage Open Days is such a good way to find out more about the place you live in or are visiting. Over the years our event organisers have uncovered previously untold stories or little-known facts about their local area.

"We have such a rich and diverse history all around us just waiting to be explored.”  

Heritage Open Days is coordinated and promoted nationally by the National Trust with support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery. Every single Heritage Open Days event is free, including access to many sites that usually charge for admission. Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said:

“We’re delighted our players are able to continue to support Heritage Open Days in 2021. The festival has always been about bringing people together to share the stories that matter to them, and that feels even more important this year.” 

Event listings are available at heritageopendays.org.uk. You can search by location or use the map function to discover what is happening in your local area.