Heritage Open Days is England’s annual celebration of local history, architecture and culture.

Co-ordinated nationally but run with the help of thousands of volunteers, the September event is an opportunity for private owners to allow free access to properties and events which cast a light on what makes neighbourhoods and communities special. Heritage assets of every age, style and function open their doors, ranging from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns, parish churches to Buddhist temples.

It’s a once-a-year chance to uncover and discover hidden treasures and rarely told stories.

Heritage Open Days in Cirencester is co-ordinated by Cirencester Civic Society. See here for details of events in the town: Cirencester Civic Society. Full programme here. Or pick up a leaflet from the Local Information Centre.