England’s Largest Festival of History & Culture

Come and discover the district’s most historic venues at this year’s Heritage Open Days, taking place between 6 – 15 September.

This year’s theme explores ‘Routes – Networks – Connections’ – celebrating the people who have made the district their home and a hub for industry and art.

There’s lots to discover: come and visit The Storey Gardens to find out how the elegant building – financed by local industrialist Thomas Storey – influenced the creation of this heritage garden. Or journey across the centuries at the Judges’ Lodgings, once home to the gaoler of the Pendle Witches, Thomas Covell, and now housing the world’s largest public collection of Gillow furniture. Then visit the Lancashire Police Museum to find out how the county’s police past and present use their training and skills to crack crime!  Venture a little further afield to learn about the production of flour, of gunpowder, and of iron, and how these commodities were used, transported and traded around the region.

Some venues offer games and trails for children, some offer guided tours with an expert, and some offer a secret glimpse behind the scenes – this fabulous free festival has something to delight and entertain everyone!  For details of specific events together with opening dates, times and booking details, please visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk. Nearer the date, you will be able to pick up a printed programme from participating venues.