Explore Norfolk’s Hidden Nature with Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days will return to Norfolk 11-20 September 2020 offering unmissable free tours, talks, walks, open days, exhibitions, performances and online events across the county.

This year Heritage Open Days has around 100 events across Norwich and Norfolk. For the first time, the festival will comprise a mix of in-person and digital events. Communities will be able to celebrate the stories of the places and spaces that are important to them from the comfort of their armchair or in-person whilst staying safe with social distancing measures in place.

The theme for the 2020 festival is Hidden Nature, offering the opportunity to discover the nature that exists on our doorsteps, as well as the built heritage. Explore areas of the countryside not normally accessible to the public and learn the hidden history of Norfolk’s natural landscapes, but also gardens, green spaces, urban parks, farms and forests.

Visitor favourites return for 2020, including the popular outdoor sites of the Bishop’s House Gardens and Ketts Heights. New events include a guided tour exploring the war time defences and ice age glaciers of Barnham Cross Common. Another highlight is a special virtual tour of the iconic Grade II* listed Briton Arms Coffee House.

Visitors can also take a self-guided heritage walk and see an exhibition and short film at Heigham Park in Norwich, which will shortly mark its centenary. New family friendly activities will also be available online courtesy of Norfolk Heritage Centre and Norwich Historic Churches Trust.

Tickets for pre book events and event listings will be released from Monday 17 August at norfolkheritageopendays.co.uk.

Katie Ellis, Heritage Open Days Producer, said: “Heritage Open Days in Norfolk wouldn’t be possible without our fantastic organisers and venues who have responded magnificently to the challenge posed by Covid-19 to produce a hugely diverse programme of events for all to enjoy. Understandably, some of the popular Norwich guided tours are unable to take place this year but there are plenty of alternative fantastic activities and events on offer.

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to enjoy the heritage and nature on our doorsteps – all for free.”

All festival events are free to attend with many available for visitors to drop-in on the day unless indicated otherwise. Events have been organised to adhere to the latest social distancing guidelines.

The Norfolk Heritage Open Days programme is coordinated and promoted by The Forum Trust with support from Norwich City Council, Norwich Tourist Information Centre, Broadland District Council, Breckland Council, Thetford Town Council, Great Yarmouth Borough Council, South Norfolk Council, North Norfolk District Council, Visit North Norfolk and many local organisations and individuals.

Further details about the events and activities taking place can be found online at norfolkheritageopendays.co.uk.