Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days returns to Lancaster and Morecambe Bay from 11-20 September 2026, opening the doors to some of the area's most fascinating heritage sites, hidden spaces and community treasures, all completely free to explore. As England's largest festival of history and culture, the event invites visitors to step inside historic buildings, meet passionate local organisations, uncover forgotten stories and experience the places that have shaped life across the district for generations.

This year's theme, Everyday Histories, celebrates the lives, work and routines of ordinary people whose stories have helped build our communities. From shopkeepers and servants to mill workers, performers, gardeners and local families, the programme shines a spotlight on the people behind the buildings and places we know today. Homes, churches, libraries, studios, theatres, workshops and heritage sites will reveal the hidden stories woven into everyday life. Some events are sponsored by Findmypast, helping to bring local and family histories to life through historical records and newspaper archives.

Across Lancaster, visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Lancaster Castle, step behind the scenes at the Judges' Lodgings Museum, discover artistic heritage at The Storey, enjoy guided tours of Lancaster Priory, and even travel through time with interactive historical walking tours. The programme also includes opportunities to explore theatre heritage, industrial history, artists' studios and university archives.

Around Morecambe Bay, the festival brings together stories of seaside entertainment, industry, religion, community life and the natural landscape. Highlights include exhibitions at Morecambe Heritage Centre, a special talk celebrating fifty years of life behind the scenes at Morecambe Winter Gardens, tours of historic halls and churches, walks through beautiful coastal landscapes, and opportunities to explore heritage sites that are rarely open to the public.

Whether you're passionate about local history, looking for a family day out, interested in architecture, arts and culture, or simply curious about the places around you, Heritage Open Days offers a unique opportunity to discover the stories hiding in plain sight.

Homepage (heritageopendays.org.uk)

This year, there are 44 events taking place across Lancaster and Morecambe Bay!

Why not download the 2026 programme and plan your festival now?