Heritage Open Days return to Swindon next week
Heritage Open Days return to Swindon next week (8 to 10 September) as historic buildings across the Borough throw open their doors, free of charge.
Published: Friday, 1st September 2023
Residents and visitors will be able to explore Swindon’s rich history and connection to the railway as well as other hidden gems dotted around the town.
Over the weekend there will be a number of different activities including:
- Guided tours
- Expert talks
- Archaeological digs
- Historic photo and artwork exhibitions
- Activities for children
Many events are being held in the town centre at locations including Central Library, the Carriage Works and GWR Park. Visitors will also get the chance to see inside the archives at Historic England (located around the corner from STEAM) as well as a guided tour around the old GWR Factory, which now houses Swindon Designer Outlet.
There are also events taking place outside the town centre including at Lydiard Park, Even Swindon Community Centre and Blunsdon St Andrew.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Heritage, Art and Culture, said: “Heritage Open Days is always a weekend marked in my calendar many months ahead! It gives so many people the opportunity to find out more about the history of their local area.
“I would encourage everyone to come out and visit a few locations to truly immerse themselves in the history of Swindon and see why the town’s heritage is so important.
“So many people have volunteered their time and effort to make these events a success so I’ll be visiting as many places as I possibly can.”
Rebecca Barrett, Regional Director, South West at Historic England said: “Heritage Open Days offers so many brilliant opportunities to discover just how special Swindon’s heritage is. From the buildings of the Railway Village to the World War II archaeology in GWR Park, it’s great to see the places we’re supporting through the Heritage Action Zone featuring strongly in this year’s programme. Our offices and Archive will be open too.”
To find out more about what events are being held, and where, visit: www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/printable-area-lists/town/Swindon