It’s the 30th anniversary of the national Heritage Open Days Festival! To mark the occasion, from the 6th-15th September, many of Kent’s beloved heritage sites can be explored for free! The teams and volunteers at some of our favourite spots will be putting on an array of fantastic experiences, talks, tours, and more for all to enjoy. This year’s theme is ‘Routes, Networks, and Connections’ and, with our fantastic transport links (we’re looking at you Southeastern and Stagecoach!), it’s safe to say we are very well connected. Here are just some of the ways to discover the county’s history, architecture, and culture…
Wherever you are in the county, you’ll have the chance to join in on the fun. Check out the Heritage Open Days website for the full list of goings-on, and make sure to pre-book to guarantee your space.
Canterbury Cathedral
Right in the heart of the historic city centre, a site that dates back hundreds of years and holds within it endless tales of the county, you’ll find Canterbury Cathedral. This year, take part in a guided tour of the Memorial Garden, including the rare opportunity to visit the tiny medieval Bastion Chapel set within the city walls. And if you can’t wait until the free fun of the Heritage Open Days starts to visit, then fear not! For a limited time only, take the exclusive ‘Climb the Corona’ tour, granting you access to the Chapel usually closed to the public. Built in the 12th century to house the crown of St Thomas Becket’s skull, you’ll be stepping into an iconic building, climbing its 95 steps to the top of the tower and soaking in magnificent views of the city.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Now’s your chance to discover 400 years of shipbuilding, ropemaking and pioneering technology as the Dockyard opens its doors on the 11th-12th September as part of the Heritage Open Days. One of their fantastic volunteers will take you on an in-depth exploration of the most complete Dockyard of the Age of Sail, uncovering stories to amaze and intrigue, and immersing you in the heart of what was once a key support for the Royal Navy.
Knole
Home to the Sackville family, Knole’s magnificent 600-year-old estate will see you exploring courtyards, parklands, and grand showrooms. Art lovers – you’re in for a treat with this one, as there’ll be paintings by Reynolds, Gainsborough, and Van Dyck to admire. Visit during Conservation Week (which happens to also fall on the Heritage Open Days), and you can see how Knole’s collection is cared for, witnessing firsthand how the dedicated and knowledgeable Collections team works to maintain this Sevenoaks National Trust property.
Chartwell
Chartwell, the much-loved home of Sir Winston Churchill, is the perfect place to learn about the former Prime Minister’s life beyond Downing Street. Here, you can tour the house where he raised his young family, decorated as it was in the 1930s, stroll the magnificent grounds and lakes he created, and even delve into his studio, home to the largest collection of Churchill’s paintings.
More to explore in White Cliffs Country
Set on the historical Kentish coast, it’s no surprise that Dover will be brimful of things to see and do this September. Just to name a few more, you can visit the largest gun battery ever built in Britain at the Wanstone Battery on those iconic White Cliffs, or even see inside the ancient Priory of St Martin at Dover College. Travel a bit further north and you’ll find Deal, where you can join a Royal Marines Heritage Walk, and you’ll have to be sure to visit the iconic Deal Timeball Tower!
For all you history buffs, here’s even more ways for you to take part in the excitement.
Quebec House
At Quebec House, another important figure’s home can be found. James Wolfe, whose victory at the Battle of Quebec changed the course of history, was raised here in Westerham. Discover his family pastimes, enjoy a taste of Georgian cookery, and especially for Heritage Open Day weekend, see the Association of Crown Forces as they share the story of the battle from a soldier’s perspective.
Heritage Open Days Festival in Thanet
Here are just some of Thanet’s highlights this year, but be sure to check out their website for plenty more inspiration on how to join in.
A Guided Walk in Margate: Discover the fascinating architecture of six historic squares throughout the town and learn about the notable residents who lived and worked here.
The Palace Cinema in Broadstairs: Explore the unique history of this iconic cinema, delving into local film heritage.
Historic Ramsgate: Visit the town’s oldest street, Paradise, home to retired sea captains in the early 18th century, taking in the sea shanties and characters in period costume.
An Augustine Camino Mini Pilgrimage: Walk from Minster Abbey to the Shrine of St Augustine in Ramsgate, uncovering stories of saints and scholars, Vikings, and powerful princesses.
Dover’s Maison Dieu
Over 800 years ago, the Maison Dieu in Dover was founded as a place for poor pilgrims to stay the night, and later became a victualling yard where ship’s biscuit and beer for the Royal Navy were made. Since turning into Dover’s Town Hall in the 1830s, it’s kept its significance within the town and, this year, there’ll be plenty of fun to be had during the Heritage Open Days. Discover the range of animals (both real and mythical!) within the carvings and stained glass in their online webinar, or come in person for a rare behind the scenes glimpse into the building, its recent conservation work, and its incredible centuries-old history.
