Heritage Open Days in Dorset
04 September 2024
Heritage Open Days return for 2024! Events are running from Friday 6th September until Sunday 15nd September.
Each year in September, thousands of volunteers unite, and doors are opened to hidden places rich in heritage, history and culture.
Where many of the venues that are taking part are often closed during the rest of the year, this is a great opportunity to explore the diverse history and culture within.
Dorset is extremely popular for its historical and cultural roots, and as a result there are so many Heritage Open Days in Dorset to visit.
We'll introduce you to a couple:
Lulworth Castle & Park
Built in the C17th, this magnificent building is steeped in history. Originally built as a hunting lodge to entertain aristocracy and royalty, it was for centuries the family seat of the Weld family, the current owners of the Lulworth Estate. Ravaged by fire in 1929, it has been partly restored in a pioneering partnership with English Heritage. With extensive parkland, woodland walks, a children’s playground, the spacious grounds are yours to enjoy!
Date and time: Tuesday 10th and Wednesday 11th September
No booking required.
Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum
With over 200 years of Justice and injustice, Shire Hall opens its doors for the public to discover and explore the history within the cells – experience it for yourself with a guided tour.
Date and time: Sunday, 15 September 1030, 1130, 1230, 1330 and 1430
Pre-booking required.
World War 2 Decoy Bunker Tour
Moors Valley Country Park, Ringwood.
Step back in time and follow in the footsteps of the service people whose job it was to try and get bombed. Volunteers will explain how the bunker was used and tell the story of its operation.
Date 15th September, no booking required.
Many more venues across Dorset are holding open days. Some will already be fully booked, but lots of venues offer a no booking required policy. Take a look.
Please share or leave a comment
Latest Features
Places to Go
Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.
Attractions
Activities
Pubs & Restaurants
Holiday Parks
Shops & Services
Vouchers & OffersDorset Events
More Recent Features
Get your tastebuds tingling this Christmas. We’re big advocates of Dorset’s foodie scene and enjoy nothing more than delicious dining – Dorset style. Here are some foodie events, producers and restaurants offering something a bit special this December.
New to Portland is the Beekeeper Food Shop, where you will find local meats, dairy goodies, fresh vegetables and arts and crafts from Portland. You’ll find them at Victoria Park DT5 1GB where you will also want ... Read more...
.png)
We are delighted to launch the Resort Dorset newsletter! And good news for those who sign up as we have been kindly offered a fantastic prize draw for a two night break from Front Rows luxury holiday accommodation on Portland!
The Resort newsletter will bring you good news from Dorset. Including what’s on, special offers and things to do. We will highlight locations to explore, unmissable events, local business heroes and much more.
The prize draw will be available to ... Read more...
You'll find the perfect present while Christmas shopping in Dorset, find unique gifts, local art, Dorset food and drink and much more. We've put together a few ideas to help get you started!
1 – Have you got a tank enthusiast in the family? Take a look at the Tank Museum online shop: from baubles to model kits and themed T-shirts, their shop has something for everyone.
2 – Cheeeeeese! A Christmas staple, get ... Read more...