England’s largest festival of history and culture returns this month, as Heritage Open Days prepares to open up some of Manchester’s most famous landmarks to the public.
Volunteers and institutions around Greater Manchester are set to host an array of fascinating, free, one-off events, tours and workshops around the city’s most significant buildings and spaces.
From historic tours to Suffragette-inspired workshops, here are some of the best events you can book now for the 2024 edition of Heritage Open Days.
Drop by the Pankhurst Centre on Sat 7 Sep between 1pm – 3pm and you’ll be able to join in a free tote bag-making workshop inspired by the birthplace of the Suffragette movement. There’s no need to pre-book, all materials will be provided and you’ll have yourself a brand-new, personalised tote to take home with you.
Go behind the scenes at the People’s History Museum, learning more about the world’s largest collection of trade union and political banners and how the museum’s specialist conservators care for the exhibits.
There’ll be chances to get up close to objects currently being conserved, with live demonstrations of the techniques being used.
On Sat 14 Sep, visitors will have two opportunities to take part in these free tours, with sessions running between 11am – 12pm and again at 2pm – 3pm.
One of Manchester’s most famous landmarks will be throwing a weekend of free, family-friendly activities. Running across Sat 7 & Sun 8 Sep, Victoria Baths will be hosting free drop-in games and crafts, a ‘Miles of Tiles’ activity trail, an interactive ‘Drawing Pool’ and more.
Free tickets can be booked in advance using the button below.
On Mon 9 Sep, St Wilfrid’s Church is inviting the public to come in and learn more about four of South Manchester’s ‘Heritage Heroes’. Reformers Absalom and Edward Watkin, Peterloo organiser Joseph Johnson, and Thomas William Tatton of Wythenshawe Hall will all be subjects of illustrated presentations from Geoff Scargill (Watkin Society), Libby Edwards (Friends of Wythenshawe Hall) and Andrew Bradley (St. Wilfrid’s Northenden).
Following the talks, guests will have the opportunity to explore the church and its memorials to all four.
Then, on Sun 15 Sep, the team will lead visitors up the medieval tower of St Wilfrid’s where they’ll be able to enjoy stunning views out over the suburbs. Multiple tours will be running throughout the day, and must be booked in advance.
- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Mon 2 Sep 2024
Take a journey through the medieval history of Bailey’s Wood on this free guided walk led by Dr Hannah Priest. Guests will be treated to tales of ancient romance as they spend an hour making their way through the leafy surroundings.
This event forms part of the Friends of Bailey’s Wood Medieval Day, showcasing the medieval history of Blackley and Bailey’s Wood. You can reserve your spot using the button below.