Heritage Open Days return for first time in decade

An event that puts the spotlight on historic places and people is set to return to the West Midlands for the first time in a decade.

The England-wide Heritage Open Days are described by City of Wolverhampton Council as the country's "largest community-led festival of history and culture".

For the first time since 2016 free sessions, from 11 to 20 September, will enable visitors to explore historic places and learn stories about Wolverhampton.

"Our city has an extraordinary story to tell, and this is a chance for everyone to rediscover the places, people and everyday histories that have shaped it," a council spokesperson said.

The open days have been organised by the Friends of Wolverhampton Archives in partnership with the local authority.

This year's theme is "Everyday Histories", and will focus on the people, places and stories that have shaped local communities.

Wolverhampton boasts a wide range of historic buildings and venues dating from the 15th to the 20th century, including historic houses, places of worship, arts and leisure venues, industrial and sports sites, as well as the city's canal network.

Organisers have appealed for local venues, volunteers and community groups to get in touch if they want to get involved.

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