It must have been summer 2007 when I discovered a flyer in my local library about Open House London. Since then, I try to visit at least one venue a year, time permitting. Some of my most memorable visits were: a tour of the National Art Collection, exploring Ham House, going into Subsea 7 HQ in Sutton and the Tree House Clapham (before it was sold). Of course, how can I forget, Lincoln’s Inn?! I visited in September 2024 to see the location for Netflix’s series You. It was everything I could hope for. The library was a place of joy for me. I love libraries. Now this is your chance! Don’t miss the opportunity to visit a local hidden gem courtesy of Heritage Open Days and Open City.
Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days throws open doors across England. It has expanded and diversified from 701 events at its launch to over 5,000 today. Spanning the public, private and voluntary sectors, it’s a unique and powerful partnership. Growing from European roots, it is nationally supported but locally led, working with organisations and individuals across England to explore and celebrate the island’s diverse heritage.
Open City
Open City is London-centred. The charity empowers communities to learn about, feel connected to, and have a role in shaping the places where they live.
Their mission is to make the built environment more open, accessible, and equitable. It gives 250,000 Londoners each year access to architecture and landscapes they are normally locked out of.
Hidden Gems In Your Community
If you want to get away from the business of the city, Richmond and Kingston have listed a few places that might interest you. For example, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Herbarium will be open and free on selected days and times . Garrick’s Temple to Shakespeare is one of my personal faves , but it is a small site. If you are coming from afar, plan other things to do in the vicinity. Interested in interiors?! No worries, 80 Mallard Place, Twickenham is open for viewings.
Open City 2025 runs from 13th – 21st September. Visit the Open City website for the full calendar of events and places to visit.
Gatton Park Reigate, Surrey, is offering a guided tour on a selected dates. Are you a fan of manor houses? Well, Fetcham Park House, Leatherhead, Surrey will be open. Then, there is the Semaphore Tower. The tower is a remnant from the Napoleonic era, located in Ockham, Surrey. FYI: Pre-booking is preferred
Finally, if you have green thumb or thking of starting a kitchen garden, Painshill Park’s kitchen garden will be open.
Heritage Open Days 2025 runs from 13th – 21st September. Visit the Heritage Open Days website to find an experience that suits your interest
Get Social
You can find Open City on Instagram as well as Heritage Open Days. Follow them to stay in the loop. You can also follow the Canal Trust if you like exploring rivers and canal paths.
I hope you enjoyed this post. While you are here, check out my other days out for inspiration. And follow me on Instagram @xpatathome
