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Heritage Open Days Celebrates 30 Years

From Friday 6 to Sunday 15 September 2024, Mole Valley will be celebrating Heritage Open Days by opening the doors of its most fascinating buildings and offering talks on many intriguing, local subjects – all available free of charge.

Heritage Open Days is the largest festival of history and culture in England and this year marks the 30th anniversary since its inception. In Mole Valley, more than 50 events and activities take place across the district over the ten-day period. With the diverse range of guided walks, talks, exhibitions and more on offer, there’s no doubt that everyone will find something of interest.

This year’s national theme is ‘Routes – Networks – Connections’. Our volunteers – who dedicate their own time to enable each event and activity to take place – will impart their enthusiasm and knowledge to educate and inspire visitors. Experience free access to a number of heritage sites, including historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and areas of natural beauty that might otherwise be closed to the public.

Heritage Open Days in Mole Valley launches with a fascinating event on Friday 6 September, with speakers from The Charles Close Society for the Study of Ordnance Survey Maps presenting an in-depth look at a variety of maps from many sources and ages. Pre-booking is required, so to secure your place and to find out more information, visit the Heritage Open Days website.

It is best to plan in advance, particularly as some events require pre-booking as spaces will be limited. An online version of Mole Valley’s Heritage Open Days brochure can be explored now, with hardcopy versions available to pick up from locations across Mole Valley including libraries, the reception at Mole Valley District Council’s Pippbrook offices and the Letherhead Institute in the coming weeks.

Councillor Nick Wright, MVDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, said: “This packed Mole Valley brochure shows that the Open Days will offer many fascinating and surprising events and activities across the district. The fact that this festival has reached 30 years speaks volumes for its enduring popularity and continued success. Make sure you don’t miss out this September, and discover what Heritage Open Days has to offer.”