Say Hello Heritage this September as venues open their doors for FREE

A fortnight of free open days, tours, walks and events will take place at historic heritage locations in the heart of the National Forest next month.

Between Saturday 1 September and Sunday 16 September, Hello Heritage will return for its second year in South Derbyshire and North West Leicestershire, increasing the number of participating venues.

More than 35 sites brimming with history, heritage and culture will be open for the public to enjoy with a wide range of offerings including guided tours, music, exhibitions, walks and talks.

Organised by South Derbyshire District Council (SDDC) and North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) and all of the participating locations, venues and groups, the fortnight of heritage fun has something for everyone.

A full brochure detailing all the available free activities and events can be found at www.southderbyshire.gov.uk/helloheritage  and www.nwleics.gov.uk/helloheritage.

A small snapshot of just a few of Hello Heritage’s offerings include:

• Learn about the civil war and Bonnie Prince Charlie, at a Swarkestone history walk
• Discover St Wilfrid’s Church in Barrow upon Trent, a hidden gem with Anglo Saxon origins
• Join Dot Morson on a talk through time to learn how Swadlincote has evolved from pits and pots to parks and woods.
• Follow in the footsteps of Robert Stephenson at the Swannington Incline
• Explore two engine house complexes, miners’ cottages and an 18th century haystack boiler at the Califat coal mine
• Take an all access tour of Coalville’s Century Theatre
• Join Coleorton Heritage Group and learn about the village during a two-hour stroll
• Explore Swannington’s 200-year-old Hough Mill
• Visit the Fifty Fantastic Females exhibition in Coalville

Martyn Ford, Leader of South Derbyshire District Council, said: “This area is rich in culture and heritage, with stories waiting to be told around every corner.

“Visitors can enjoy a treasure trove of discoveries, from admiring the scenic beauty of The National Forest to taking a step back in time with our historical walks. These booklets can be picked up at both Ashby and Swadlincote Tourist Information Centres.

“We’re proud and thrilled to work in partnership with NWLDC to showcase South Derbyshire throughout the Hello Heritage fortnight.”

Councillor Alison Smith MBE, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Community Services at NWLDC, said: “Last year’s debut Hello Heritage was a great success and we want to build on that this time around.

“We’ve been able to bring more heritage sites and groups on board, expand what they can offer, and get venues from across the border involved thanks to our partnership with SDDC.

“We are very proud of our heritage in North West Leicestershire and this is your chance to immerse yourselves in it. It’s going to be a fantastic fortnight for everyone to enjoy.”

For more information on the event please visit www.southderbyshire.gov.uk/helloheritage   and/or www.nwleics.gov.uk/helloheritage.

17 August 2018