Birmingham Heritage Week, an event that spans ten days from 11 to 20 September, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the city without spending a penny. This annual celebration showcases a variety of free events and attractions, perfect for families and anyone eager to discover more about Birmingham’s rich history and hidden treasures.
Among the highlights are exclusive visits to locations usually closed to the public. For instance, you can explore a locked park in Moseley and an underground vault in Birmingham city centre. These unique experiences reveal the city’s charm and architectural beauty often overlooked in daily life.
One stunning example is the “rainbow dome” church in Aston, a colourful landmark many are unaware of even after years of local reporting. Then there is the historic area known as “Little Rome” along the Hagley Road, notable for its remarkable dome and as the former home of J.R.R. Tolkien, a fact that adds a literary allure to the site.
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In Sutton Coldfield, visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional water mill, tasting cakes made from its flour and even taking home a bag for baking. Meanwhile, the Serbian church in Bournville, famed for its striking azure interior, opens its doors for a free visit complete with a barbecue and homemade cakes.
Additionally, top attractions like three National Trust properties are waiving their admission fees during selected days of the festival. These include Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House in Solihull, as well as the Back to Back houses in the city centre. Selly Manor, a cherished museum in Bournville, typically charging £6 for adults and £4 for children, will also offer free entry on Saturday, 12 September.
Heritage Open Days extend beyond Birmingham, with events across the country. For example, a moated castle mere 45 minutes from Birmingham, normally charging £15 for adults and £9 for children, opens its gates free of charge this weekend. Meanwhile, Mary Arden Farm in Stratford-upon-Avon, recently closed to the public except for school trips, hosts a special open day with £5 tickets. Similarly, the Thinktank Science Museum offers entry for just £5 during the event.
Birmingham Heritage Week is an excellent way to embrace the city’s heritage and enjoy family-friendly outings without cost. Whatever your interests, this event promises enriching experiences and discoveries.
Happy exploring!