Heritage Open Days (HODs) returns this September with thousands of free events and experiences across the country, including many in the North East. HODs brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. It is hosted by the National Trust, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers.
Over the three decades since HODs began it has grown in scope and scale. What began as a weekend dedicated to revealing buildings not normally open to the general public has exploded into a ten-day festival, celebrating a myriad of different aspects of heritage and culture. Read more: Metroland won't return to MetroCentre in 2026 as reopening 'announcement' turns out to be fake Get all the latest updates on food, drink, entertainment and events in the North East with our free What’s On newsletter With more than 100,000 events and over 39 million visits across 30 years, it has grown from just 700 events in the first year to over 5,250 in 2023.
Still committed to its founding principles of free access and being community led, it’s a much-loved event that many look forward to every year. Liam Montgomery, Heritage Open Days Marketing & Projects Manager said: "The scale and diversity of Heritage Open Days is just incredible – every year thousands of passionate people help visitors to make doorstep discoveries and connect with history and heritage in every part of England. This year though, it will be extr.
