In 1991, the Council of Europe and the European Commission set up European Heritage Days to encourage the appreciation and protection of Europe’s diverse cultural assets. They wanted to throw open the doors to historic monuments and buildings, particularly those normally closed to the public. Today, Heritage Open Days are held in September in 50 countries. England’s Heritage Open Days have grown into England’s largest heritage festival, with over 5,000 events held annually, including exclusive openings and family-friendly activities. This year, for the first time, the festival will take place on two consecutive weekends. It will also mark the centenary of the Universal Suffrage Act with ‘Extraordinary Women’ events, celebrating well-known and lesser-known remarkable women. To find a suitable event or open day near you, hvisit www.heritageopendays.org.uk.
Malmesbury’s First World Memorials Malmesbury Town Council, Town Hall, Cross Hayes, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9BZ A guided walk to visit all but one of the town’s memorials and some graves. A walk starting at Malmesbury Town Hall via Moravian Churchyard, Abbey, Triangle, United Reformed Church and finishing at the Cemetery, Tetbury Hill. More than 7 Memorials will be examined, their history explained and a number of war graves visited. Opening Times Friday 7 September: Tour 1400 Saturday 8 September: Tour 1015 Booking Details No booking required Access Although those with restricted mobility will be welcomed the walk uses narrow pavements (Abbey Row & Gloucester Road) and busy roads have to be crossed. The first part of the tour as far as the Abbey is more accessible. Additional Information Max 25 people per tour/session. Walk takes at least one and a half hours Contact for the day: Charles Vernon 01666 824376 Organised by Malmesbury Civic Trust
Athelstan Museum opens the Moravian Church Malmesbury Moravian Church, Oxford Street, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9AX Athelstan Museum has been working on restoring and converting the Moravian Church in Oxford Street Malmesbury. Now for the first time the finished building is open to the public. Last year we opened the derelict Moravian church in Malmesbury as part of the Heritage Weekend. This year we have finished restoring and converting it to further the work of the museum and for use by the community. Although we have made changes we feel the building still reflects its heritage. Do you? Come and see! Members of the Friends of Athelstan Museum will be on hand to chat and answer any questions. Opening Times Saturday 15 September: 1030-1630 Sunday 16 September: 1030-1630 Booking Details No booking required Athelstan Museum 01666829258 http//www.athelstanmuseum.org