In September, the Wakefield District comes alive with a celebration of its rich history and cultural heritage. Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture, offers a unique opportunity to explore hidden gems, historic sites, and intriguing stories, all free of charge.
This annual event, running from 6th to 15th September, brings together communities, volunteers, and organisations to showcase the best of Wakefield’s historical and cultural landscape.
As part of Our Year Wakefield District 2024, this year’s Heritage Open Days feature an exciting array of events across the district, highlighting the creativity, resilience, and stories of the people and places that have shaped Wakefield. From mining machinery demonstrations to exploring medieval castles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A celebration of mining heritage
At the National Coal Mining Museum, the Caphouse Machine Rally invites visitors to delve into the world of mining engineering. This event is a must-see for anyone fascinated by the mechanics of mining and vintage machinery.
Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including underground tours, robotics workshops, and live demonstrations of historic mining equipment. It’s an opportunity to experience firsthand the ingenuity and hard work that powered the industrial revolution.
Nostell’s historical charm and new adventures
Nostell, National Trust offers two days of free access, where visitors can explore the new wild play area in Joiner’s Wood. Families and nature enthusiasts alike will enjoy the adventure of zipping through the trees and exploring 300 acres of stunning parkland.
Inside the house, the story of Sabine Winn unfolds, providing a glimpse into the life and times of this fascinating historical figure. Crafting activities are also available, making it a perfect day out for families.
A glimpse behind the scenes at Theatre Royal Wakefield
The Theatre Royal Wakefield, designed by Frank Matcham, opens its doors for a rare behind-the-scenes tour. Visitors can marvel at the architectural beauty of this theatrical masterpiece and explore areas not usually accessible to the public. The tour culminates with a chance to stand on the historic stage—a moment sure to inspire theatre lovers and history buffs alike.
Exploring Wakefield’s public art and sculpture
Wakefield’s city centre is home to a wealth of public art and sculpture, much of which goes unnoticed by the casual passerby. The Wakefield Civic Society is hosting a guided walk that highlights the art and sculpture in and around the city. This walk is an excellent opportunity to discover the stories behind these works of art and appreciate the creativity on display throughout Wakefield’s streets.
Medieval engineering and literary discoveries at Pontefract and Sandal Castles
Pontefract and Sandal Castles offer a diverse programme of events during Heritage Open Days. From hands-on medieval engineering challenges to literary performances, these historic sites are alive with activity. The Catapult Challenge invites families to test their skills, while history enthusiasts can enjoy in-depth tours of the castles. Additionally, the launch of the Chronicles of Culture promises to introduce new literary talent, and gardening fans can learn about the use of medieval herbs.
Climbing Wakefield Cathedral’s tower for stunning views
For those looking to see Wakefield from a new perspective, climbing the tower of Wakefield Cathedral is a must. Standing 170 steps above the city, visitors are rewarded with magnificent views of Wakefield and the surrounding countryside.
The Cathedral, boasting the tallest spire in Yorkshire at 94 metres, also offers a rare glimpse of its fourteen bells, making this tour a highlight of the Heritage Open Days.
Celebrating 50 years of the Mental Health Museum
The Mental Health Museum marks its 50th anniversary with a special event during Heritage Open Days. This museum offers a unique perspective on the history of mental health care, and the guided tours provide an opportunity to engage with intriguing historical objects and discussions about the evolution of mental health treatment.
Discovering the hidden treasures of Yorkshire Sculpture Park
A visit to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is always a treat, but during Heritage Open Days, the focus shifts to the historic pump house and Lower Lake. Guided tours by heritage volunteers shed light on the restoration project and the current management of this picturesque parkland. With over 90 monumental sculptures scattered throughout the landscape, visitors can enjoy a fusion of art and nature, alongside spotting a variety of wildlife across the vast estate.
Wakefield’s rich heritage revealed
The Heritage Open Days in Wakefield are part of a larger narrative of uncovering and celebrating the district’s history. Tegwen Roberts, Heritage Development Manager for Wakefield Council, has put together a guide to the many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. From medieval castles to the legacy of mining, Wakefield’s heritage is rich and varied, offering something for everyone to explore.
Our Heritage, Our Stories: A reflection on Wakefield’s industrial past
As part of Our Year – Wakefield District 2024, the Our Heritage, Our Stories initiative looks back at the district’s links to mining, textiles, built heritage, and performance.
This reflective series includes exclusive blogs about significant moments in Wakefield’s history, such as the 40th anniversary of the miners’ strike, the district’s textile heritage, and the untold stories of disabled mill workers. These narratives provide a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped Wakefield and its communities.
Exploring West Yorkshire’s heritage
Beyond Wakefield, the Heritage Open Days offer opportunities to explore the broader region of West Yorkshire. Highlights include the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of Bradford Industrial Museum and the chance to climb the Wainhouse Tower in Halifax, often referred to as the Tower of Spite. Other activities across West Yorkshire include tours of Huddersfield Town Hall in Kirklees and a guided walk through the mining village of Allerton Bywater in Leeds.
A look at everyday life in a pit village
Finally, the Dog of the Month feature introduces George Wagstaff and his dog, captured in a photograph by Jack Hulme. Hulme’s work offers a poignant glimpse into everyday life in a pit village, and his photographs are currently on display at Castleford Museum in the exhibition Extraordinary Ordinary: Pit Village Life by Jack Hulme. This exhibition runs until March 2025 and is a testament to the enduring spirit of Wakefield’s mining communities.
In summary, the Heritage Open Days in Wakefield offer a unique chance to connect with the district’s past and celebrate the vibrant cultural landscape of today. Whether you’re interested in industrial heritage, historic architecture, or public art, there’s something for everyone to discover. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the stories and traditions that make Wakefield and West Yorkshire so special.
