Date published: 2026-09-08 | Category: Heritage
Free access to hidden gems, historic sites and cultural treasures from 11–20 September
This September, venues across Bath & North East Somerset will once again throw open their doors for Heritage Open Days, England's largest community-led festival of history and culture. Running from 11-20 September 2026, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore fascinating buildings, heritage sites and cultural spaces across Bath and beyond, completely free of charge.
The 10-day celebration features more than 30 venues offering guided tours, exhibitions, talks, behind-the-scenes experiences and family-friendly activities. From medieval abbeys and historic cemeteries to museums, galleries, churches and heritage landscapes, the programme invites residents and visitors to discover the remarkable stories, people and places that have shaped Bath & North East Somerset.
Councillor Paul Roper, Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said:
"Heritage Open Days are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the places, stories and communities that make Bath & North East Somerset so special. Whether you're uncovering hidden collections, exploring historic buildings, learning about local archaeology or enjoying family activities, there is something for everyone. I encourage residents and visitors alike to make the most of this wonderful free festival and discover something new on their doorstep."
Highlights include:
- Victoria Art Gallery: Go behind the scenes and explore remarkable artworks housed in the gallery's art stores, including pieces not normally on public display (11 September, booking required).
- Bath and North East Somerset Libraries: Enjoy a rare opportunity to view treasures from the Juvenilia Collection, including special editions of classic children's literature that have not been publicly displayed for several years (11 September, booking required).
- Saltford Brass Mill: Explore one of the last surviving sites of the Avon Valley copper and brass industry through tours, interactive displays and audio guides (12 September).
- Keynsham Abbey: Meet a Saxon, explore medieval gardens and discover life in a medieval abbey through demonstrations, activities and the family-friendly Monks' Trail (12 and 19 September).
- Keynsham Civic Centre: Get hands-on with Roman artefacts discovered in Keynsham and learn more about the area's archaeological heritage (12 September).
- American Museum & Gardens: Enjoy free access to the gardens, woodland walk, play area and café at this unique estate overlooking Bath (13 September).
- Cleveland Pools: Visit this iconic historic site as it opens to visitors for the first time since 2023, featuring talks, trails and family activities exploring its future (13 September).
- Mayor's Parlour, Guildhall: Discover 800 years of civic history, including Bath's Royal Charters and ceremonial regalia dating back to the reigns of Richard I and Elizabeth I (14–18 September).
- The Roman Baths: Take part in archaeology-themed experiences, guided tours of the Clore Learning Centre and behind-the-scenes tours exploring Bath's historic spa collections (14–17 September, booking required).
- Bath Spa University's Locksbrook Campus: Explore the award-winning campus and learn how its historic industrial heritage has been adapted for modern creative education (18–20 September).
- Elton House: Step inside this historic Landmark Trust property, opening to the public for the first time since recent improvements and only the second time since 2018 (19–20 September, booking required).
There are many more places to explore throughout the festival, including historic churches, burial grounds, museums, archives and community spaces across Bath, Keynsham, Saltford and Midsomer Norton. Highlights range from tower tours at St John the Baptist Church and guided visits to St Stephen's Church, to a rare opening of Southcot Burial Ground and a chance to discover the history of quarrying at the Museum of Bath Stone.
For the full programme and booking information, visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk
Please note: Some events require advance booking. Visitors are encouraged to check event details before attending to avoid disappointment.