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Inspiration • September 2nd, 2026
|Heritage Open Days are set to bring local history to life across the district from 11 to 20 September 2026. This annual event invites everyone to explore the rich heritage of the area through a variety of guided tours, talks, and visits to historical buildings. With free access to numerous events, it’s a perfect opportunity for families, history buffs, and anyone curious about the past.
Exciting Events
During Heritage Open Days, visitors can take part in an array of activities that showcase the unique history of the region. Here are some highlights:
Sandal Castle: Explore the grounds and ruins of this historic site, which has over 500 years of history. For the adventurous, there’s even a chance to tour the dungeons of Pontefract Castle.
Museum Store Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Wakefield Museums and Castles Collections, where experts will show off a treasure trove of historical objects and explain how they are preserved.
George Fox Manuscripts: Wakefield Libraries will unveil a digital edition of the George Fox manuscripts, providing a unique illustrated journey through Pontefract's history. A special launch event will take place at Pontefract Library on Saturday, 12 September, where visitors can also view the original manuscripts.
Interactive Storytelling: Join storyteller Beccy Dye at Pontefract Castle for an engaging session that tells extraordinary tales about everyday people from Pontefract’s past.
The Dispensary and Hermitage Project: Discover insights into this digital interpretation project, which highlights the history of the dispensary and the 14th-century hermitage it stands upon, enhanced with virtual reality experiences.
Other Notable Attractions
In addition to the above activities, there are several other events that promise to be just as captivating:
The Art House: Visitors can explore parts of the 119-year-old former Carnegie Library during two special open days.
Waterton’s Wall and Parkland: Learn about Charles Waterton, a pioneering environmentalist and explorer known for creating the world’s first nature reserve.
Wakefield Cathedral: Climb the tower for a breath-taking view of Wakefield from above.
Town Criers: Meet the newly appointed town criers from Castleford Civic Society, including Town Crier Barbara, who will share the historical significance of this role.
Elizabeth Love Museum: Don’t miss the brand-new exhibition titled ‘The Hidden Lives of Elizabeth & Joe Love,’ launching on Wednesday, 16 September. This exhibition showcases their impressive collection, which includes antiques, Castleford Pottery, and 25 long case clocks.
West Yorkshire Astronomical Society: Attend a talk about the Rosse Telescope at the WYAS Rosse Telescope and Observatory, followed by a guided tour of the facility.
West Yorkshire History Centre: Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the archives, which house over eight miles of historic records.
Wakefield Theatre Royal: Open its doors for visitors to explore the building and enjoy family-friendly activities and exhibitions.
Community Engagement
Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming events, stating, “Heritage Open Days are a fantastic way for people to explore and celebrate our proud history.” He emphasised that these events will not only showcase the area’s rich heritage but also celebrate the local culture, with many partner organisations welcoming visitors to learn about their history.
Free Access for All
All events during Heritage Open Days are free to attend, making it accessible for everyone to dive into the local history of Wakefield and the surrounding areas. Full details here.
