Some of Preston’s hidden historic and cultural landmarks will open their doors as part of a celebration of England’s heritage.
AdvertisementHeritage Open Days allow members of the public to see hidden places and try out new experiences for free. In 2017, around 40,000 volunteers organised over 5,000 events across the country.
This year various famous Preston landmarks will be taking part. We’ve picked out a few of the highlights, but to see the full list visit the Heritage Open Days website.
Extraordinary Women at Lancashire Archives
What: Visit the exhibition to learn about the Lancashire suffrage campaigners who helped women gain the vote 100 years ago. There’s also the chance to go behind the scenes to see conservation demonstrations and enter a strongroom, where the archive’s treasures are kept safe.
When: Saturday 8 September, 10am to 4pm. Tours at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 2pm.
Haslam Park and the Lancaster Canal
What: A choice of two heritage walk and talks – one that covers the history of the park, which was created in 1910, and a second that takes place along the Lancaster Canal towpath. Further talks on the nearby nature reserve and heritage orchard can be scheduled on demand.
When: Saturday 8 September, 11am and 2pm.
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Egyptian Balcony at The Harris
What: Visit the Egyptian Balcony at the top of the Harris for views through the building, and a trip around the key sites of ancient Egypt. Usually only open for special tours, this is a rare chance for a drop-in visit. There’s a virtual tour for those who might find the stairs or height too challenging.
When: Saturday 8 September, 1pm to 3pm. Virtual tours at 1pm and 2pm.
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What: Take a tour of the site where Preston’s rubbish has been processed since the early 19th century. See everything from the former ‘refuse destructor’ that was built in the 1880s to collect, sort and burn rubbish, to how waste is processed today.
When: Sunday 9 September at 10am, 11am and 1pm.
Fulwood Barracks with the Great War Society
What: Join a guided tour of Fulwood Barracks, visiting parts of the grounds that are normally closed to visitors, while listening to ghostly and murderous tales. Commemorating 100 years since the end of World War I, the Great War Society will be there to answer questions.
When: Saturday 15 September, 10am to 4pm. Tours at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm.
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Will you be attending a Preston heritage open day? Let us know in the comments below.