Heritage Open Days returns to Exeter next month with a chance to step inside some of the city’s most fascinating buildings…and it’s all for free!
It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the history of Exeter and the stories that have shaped this great city.
Heritage Open Days runs from 11 to 20 September and is England’s largest festival of history and culture.
Across the country, thousands of buildings and hidden places that are often closed to the public or usually charge for admission, open up their doors for free.
It's a rare opportunity to explore remarkable locations, uncover hidden treasures and experience local heritage in a whole new way.
Heritage Open Days is managed nationally by the National Trust, with support from Historic England and the People's Postcode Lottery. The festival attracts more than three million visitors each year.
In Exeter, the programme is coordinated by Exeter City Council and features an exciting line-up of free tours, talks and special openings.
This year's theme, Everyday Histories, shines a spotlight on the people, places and working lives that have helped shape our communities. From fascinating guided tours and behind-the-scenes access to inspiring talks and family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy – and every event is completely free.
Here are some of the highlights:
- Tuckers Hall – discover a medieval meeting hall dating back to 1471, home to the Incorporation of The Guilds of Weaver, Fuller and Shearmen.
- Britannia Making Waves – open ship and demonstrations on Exeter’s quayside, relating to seafaring and wooden boat building skills
- Guided walks around the west of the City Wall and Exebridges with Devon Archaeological Society
- Everyday Histories – Policing the Past via Exeter the Exeter Archives at the Museum of Policing in Devon & Cornwall at Southwest Heritage Trust, Devon Heritage Centre
Exeter’s popular Red Coats will be carrying out free guided tours of the city, exploring Exeter’s rich and varied history. Topics include Exeter Blitz, Writers Around Exeter, and Exeter Herstories – Walking with Women through Time.
There’s also a chance to step inside Exeter’s historic Guildhall – one of England’s oldest civic buildings – and enjoy a guided tour.
And free tours of Exeter’s unique Underground Passages proved so popular they were snapped up within minutes of being available.
For all events go to the Heritage Open Days website at - Heritage Open Days

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