Heritage Open Days returns to West Northamptonshire
Over 60 free events highlight the region's cultural past
Residents and visitors are invited to delve into the cultural tapestry of West Northamptonshire as the Heritage Open Days return from 11th to 20th September 2026.
Organised by the National Trust, this event is England's largest festival celebrating history and culture, offering complimentary access to diverse attractions such as historic buildings and community-driven events throughout the region.
The festival this year focuses on the everyday lives of working people, animated through a varied programme of walks, talks, exhibitions, open days, and guided tours.
Over 60 attractions across West Northamptonshire are participating, including Delapré Abbey, Lamport Hall, Sulgrave Manor, the Guildhall, and Towcester Museum.
Festival highlights include a celebration of Northamptonshire's renowned shoe heritage with heritage bus tours funded by West Northamptonshire Council.
Other notable events are free audio tours of Northampton’s boot and shoe quarter from Auda Tours, and shoe heritage walking tours.
Participants can explore the Amazing Northampton Walk using technology from the popular Amazing Northampton Run.
Exhibitions include the history of British Timken in Duston, behind-the-scenes tours at Phipps Brewery in Northampton, and more.
Additional events in Middleton Cheney examine Anglo-German relations through local history.
Visitors can also attend an open day at the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation to learn about Britain's engineering legacy.
Complementary heritage bus services will operate from Northampton and Daventry during the festival to facilitate access to attractions.
Councillor Kamala Guliyeva, the Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at WNC, said: “Heritage Open Days is a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to discover the rich history, culture and stories that make West Northamptonshire such a special place to live and visit.”
All registered events can be found on the Heritage Open Days and Discover Northamptonshire websites.