Heritage Open Days in Northumberland: Enjoy Free days out!
Northumberland is full of history wherever you turn — from Roman forts and medieval castles to grand houses and tucked-away churches in picturesque villages. Once a year, during the national Heritage Open Days event, some of these fascinating places open their doors for free. For our guests staying in the area, it’s a wonderful opportunity to uncover more of Northumberland — explore historic sites and enjoy a fresh perspective on the county’s past.
What Are Heritage Open Days?
Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture. Every September, historic buildings, gardens and community spaces open their doors for free, often with guided tours, talks, exhibitions, and special activities. In 2025, the event runs between 12th – 21st September.
It’s not just the famous sites that take part. One of the positives of the festival is discovering places you wouldn’t normally see — private halls, churches, industrial heritage sites and quirky local spaces. Some venues may require pre-booking due to limited capacity, but entry is always free, making it perfect for families, couples, and history enthusiasts alike.
Heritage Open Days Across Northumberland & the North East
Northumberland and the wider North East are packed with fascinating sites taking part, making it easy to plan a holiday around the event and explore multiple towns in the region. Located near our holiday cottages, highlights include:
Bellingham
The Bellingham Heritage Centre is once again taking part in the Open Days for 2025 – more information in available on their website here.
Hexham
On offer in Hexham is a guided walk focusing on a tour of the town’s ‘House of Correction’.
Corbridge
Corbridge Church participates from 9th – 14th September, with a focal point on a wedding photography display, alongside other heritage events.
Alnwick
Alnwick offers a variety of activities, including guided walks, church tours, and visits to the playhouse.
Morpeth
The market town of Morpeth joins the festival with several activities, including a free Historical Walking Tour.
National Trust and English Heritage sites
Several properties across Northumberland participate, offering castles, gardens, and historic homes in a fresh light. Within easy reach of our cottages, Wallington Hall and Cragside are opening their doors on specific dates for free.
Newcastle
The city often features heritage sites, historic townhouses and curated exhibitions.
County Durham
Heading south of Northumberland, sites such as the Bowes Museum, Durham Castle, and Durham Cathedral also participate, offering a wider exploration of North East history in stunning settings.
Because each year’s programme changes, it’s worth checking the Heritage Open Days website for the latest listings before your visit.
Why Heritage Open Days are Perfect During Your Cottage Stay
Heritage Open Days are a brilliant addition to a Northumberland holiday. Staying in one of our cottages gives you a comfortable base to explore multiple towns and sites over a few days. With free entry to events, it’s an easy way to add cultural activities without stretching your holiday budget.
For families, it’s engaging and interactive, with many venues offering activities for children. Couples can enjoy wandering through historic buildings, gardens, and hidden streets at a relaxed pace. And for anyone staying longer, the mix of countryside and town-based events means there’s always something new to discover.
Tips for Making the Most of Heritage Open Days
Plan ahead – Some popular venues may require pre-booking, so check listings before you travel.
Combine it with local food – Stop at cafes or pubs in Hexham, Morpeth, Alnwick or Corbridge to make the day even more enjoyable.
Explore off the beaten track – Some of the best experiences are the hidden gems, so leave time for spontaneous stops.
Plan Your Stay Around Heritage Open Days
Heritage Open Days are a fantastic way to experience the county’s history and culture. It’s also a perfect excuse to explore towns and villages you might not have visited otherwise.
At Wooden Star Cottages, we love helping guests make the most of their stay, from countryside walks to historic days out. If you’d like to time your trip to coincide with Heritage Open Days, browse our selection of holiday cottages and start planning your Northumberland adventure today.
Wooden Star Cottages offers the perfect base to experience this unique event, providing a cosy retreat after a day full of activities. Book your stay at Wooden Star Cottages today and prepare for an unforgettable escape into the heart of one of England’s most beautiful regions.