Residents and visitors can explore Guildford’s history and culture through an exciting programme of Heritage Open Days events. Venues across the borough will host free activities for all the family from Friday 12 to Sunday 21 September.

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture. Run by the National Trust, the celebration will bring together local organisations and volunteers to showcase the historic beauty of our borough.

Guildford’s Heritage Open Days programme includes:

• Vintage bus rides
• A display of 13th & 14th Century life in the Castle Grounds
• Pre-war Dennis vehicles and heritage fire engines in the High Street
• Entertainment and music from local groups including Guildford Jazz
• A talk at Guildford Institute to mark 120 years of the railway in the town
• Tours of Guildford Cathedral, and church events in West Horsley, Shere, Albury, Shalford and Wanborough
• Explore the iconic Guildhall
• A celebration of 110 years of the Women’s Institute
• Tours of Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and Mill Studio
• Visit the trig point at Henley Fort
• Opening of buildings usually closed to the public, including the Royal Grammar School and Abbots Hospital
• The Little People children’s trail of events around the town – collect the guide from our Tourist Information Centre.

Cllr Tom Hunt, Deputy Leader and Lead Councillor for Economy and Place, says: “Heritage Open Days will offer residents and visitors a chance to see Guildford’s hidden treasures and try out new experiences – all for free. From architecture to music, and children’s activities to guided tours, the weekend of
events includes something for everyone.”

A highlight of the local programme is St Mary’s Church in Quarry Street – Guildford’s oldest church dating back to Saxon times. The tower is the oldest building in the town, and the pulpit is where Lewis Carroll preached.

During Heritage Open Days, the church will host a special exhibition of original artworks by women prisoners. The exhibition is thanks to a partnership between Watts Gallery Trust, the Michael Varah Memorial Fund and HMP Send, a selection of artworks will be available to buy.

Sally Varah, Chair of the Michael Varah Memorial Fund explains: “This pioneering project encourages prisoners to develop their artistic talents through weekly tutored sessions… We’re excited to bring their artwork to the wider public through St Mary’s Church and Heritage Open Days. The event will showcase the historic beauty of this welcoming place of worship, the importance of the creative arts in rehabilitation.”

Cllr Hunt adds: “Thank you to the many partners, volunteers and local organisations who make Heritage Open Days possible – we look forward to joining their teams and visitors at venues and events across the borough.”

To find out more visit the Heritage Open Days website www.heritageopendays.org.uk

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