Historic buildings and fascinating spaces are opening their doors this September, as the borough’s heritage is spotlighted in both Open House Festival and Heritage Open Days.
Open House Festival is a two week celebration of London’s architecture, neighbourhoods and homes starting this week (week commencing 6 September), with famed buildings and well kept secrets alike opening their doors to visitors – including over twenty spaces and events from Bromley. Heritage Open Days are adding to this over the next two weeks, with the borough also featuring in this national festival of free cultural and historical events delivered by the National Trust.
Residents can explore a number of exciting spaces, including:
- Bromley’s newly restored Old Town Hall
- Scadbury Moated Manor, of Tudor origins
- The Old Palace at the Civic Centre
- Bethlem Royal Hospital’s Museum of the Mind
- Churchill Theatre
A host of community groups are running tours as part of the festivities and residents may also enjoy learning about the Battle of Britain Lace Panel at Central Library, Basil Scruby from the Petts Wood and District Residents' Association, or HG Wells from Bromley Civic Society. Crystal Palace Park will also feature heavily in the celebrations, including tours of the world famous dinosaurs and Victorian Subway, which are being restored in Bromley Council’s Regeneration Plan for the park.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said: “It is of no surprise that our borough features so heavily in these celebrations. This speaks to our remarkable heritage that we work hard to preserve, which allows us to put it on display at times like these. I thank all the volunteers and organisers that make these events possible, and hope residents enjoy exploring these great spaces and learning more about Bromley’s proud history.”
Residents can book free places for Open House events, with others accepting walk-ins. To find Bromley’s events, select ‘Bromley’ in the ‘all areas’ drop-down menu on the Open House website. View a listing of all the events in Bromley Town Centre.
For more about Heritage Open Days in Bromley, visit the Heritage Open Days website.
Bromley Council is a borough partner for Open House Festival and as well as hosting events will also share information about other participating venues with residents in due course.
Open House events are run with the help of volunteer stewards and guides. Find out more and get involved this year.
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For media enquiries, please contact James George, Public Affairs, on 020 8313 4565 or email james.george@bromley.gov.uk.