North East
Properties and events in North East
Before heading out for your Heritage Open Days visit, please check entries for last-minute changes.
A fascinating InSite into Durham masonic Hall
From the small front of the building to the Tardis like interior, it has to be seen as it is part of the History of Durham Freemasons for those that are intrigued to know more.
A Walk in the Park
A Heritage Walk in the Park covering the history of the first People's Park in Newcastle, its setting in the Leazes Conservation Area and some of its flora & fauna
Alnwick Playhouse
Alnwick Playhouse invite you to explore the theatre, with self-guided tours, backstage access and have a go opportunities in our tech, box office and wardrobe departments.
Arbeia Roman Fort
Free tour of Arbeia Roman Fort.
Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery
Ten thousand years of history in one visit with interactive displays and childrens' activities plus a stunning textile exhibition
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art: Building History and Behind the Scenes Tour
Join us for an exclusive behind the scenes look at Baltic. You'll learn about the history of the building and the regeneration of the Quayside area.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art: Quayside Tour
Explore the NewcastleGateshead Quayside and local history as Baltic Crew take you on this relaxed tour.
Behind the Scenes of Northumberland Archives
Take a tour behind the scenes of Northumberland Archives and get a rare glimpse into the work that goes into preserving and providing access to our amazingly diverse collections which cover over 800 years of Northumberland’s fascinating history.
Behind the Scenes with Progressive Players @ Little Theatre Gateshead
Have a tour of the only theatre to be built and to open during WW2. The Little Theatre Gateshead was built as a permanent home for the Progressive Players by the influential Dodds Sisters.
Belford Hall
Belford Hall is a Grade I listed Georgian manor house by James Paine, extended in the Regency period by John Dobson and now divided into private apartments. The communal areas, wine cellar, servants' tunnel and gardens are open this weekend.
Binchester Roman Fort
Visitors can see the remains of the commanding officer's house of the fourth century fort, including the impressive bath building, which contains one of the best preserved examples of a hypocaust (underfloor heating system) in the whole of Britain.
Bishopwearmouth Walking Tour
An architectural walking tour of the Bishopwearmouth Townscape Heritage Scheme led by Sunderland City Council
Brancepeth Castle Tour
A guided tour of the exterior (weather permitting) and principal rooms.
Cherryburn
Discover the birthplace of famous artist, engraver and naturalist Thomas Bewick, nestled in the Tyne Valley.
Christ Church, Shieldfield, Newcastle upon Tyne
Christ Church has for the last 163 years been the parish church for Shieldfield. This Grade II* listed building is a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture. Its interior captures the history of Shieldfield.
Church of Our Lady of Mercy and St. Godric
Between the train and the bus stations, a landmark in the Durham City Conservation Area, St. Godric's Grade II listed church was designed by Edward Pugin. Opened in 1864 it has beautiful examples of Victorian stained glass and a fine high altar.
Civic Treasures: the town halls and civic centres of North-East England, talk by Dr Michael Johnson
A fascinating look at the history of the civic buildings in the North-East of England.
COTHERSTONE QUAKER MEETING HOUSE
A chance to visit an eighteenth-century meeting house in open country. Its history dates back to 1654, when George Fox reached Teesdale on foot, inspiring generations of local Quakers. Adults and children can expect a friendly welcome.
Cragend Farm Historic Tour
Cragend Farm is an award winning unique site: From the Big Bang to the 21st century: enjoy a sensory historical tour, including artefacts and research and experience the unique work of businessman and innovative engineer Lord Armstrong of Cragside.
Crook Hall Gardens
Visit Crook Hall Gardens, a quiet escape in Durham City Centre, and enjoy tranquil gardens set against the backdrop of a Grade I listed medieval hall.
Cullercoats Community Centre celebrating the R.N.L.I. bicentenary
Celebrating The Cullercoats Lifeboats & their crews
Cullercoats Watch House
Opportunity for the public to visit an iconic Grade II listed building full of interesting artefacts and lots of local history books
Dunston Staiths
Enjoy panoramic river views from this iconic, Grade ll listed, scheduled monument on the River Tyne at Dunston, Gateshead. Refreshments available from nearby Staiths Café.
Durham Crematorium
A rare chance to see behind the scenes, learn about cremation and view this rich and beautifully detailed building and its grounds.
Durham Mining Museum
Come along to our little museum and chat with former coal miners in a fantastic setting filled with artefacts and history, as well as experience what it was like working down the pit in our coal seam experience.
Durham School Tour & Durham School Chapel
Sunday 8 Sept, Durham School will open its doors to the public. The Chapel will be open with volunteers answering questions and playing the organ. There will also be a tour of the school, exploring its 600-year history.
Durham Town Hall
Discover a hidden gem of a building at the heart of civic life in Durham city since the 14th century.
Ecological Self Build House
An ecological, energy-efficient and affordable home designed & built by its architect owners/ occupants who welcome & guide you round. Free printed handouts provided illustrating project & construction details + information on materials & suppliers.
Escomb Saxon Church
Have a guided tour of this ancient, Anglo-Saxon Church, built in the 7th century, and learn about its history and heritage. See our art exhibition.
From Flax to Freelance The History of 36 Lime Street
Join Ouseburn expert Mike Greatbatch and 36 Lime Street glass artist Sue Woolhouse on a tour of the exterior and then interior of 36 Lime Street, along the way explaining what its original use was and a tour of several studios.
George Stephenson's Birthplace
Uncover the life of world-famous railway engineer George Stephenson in the cottage where he was born.
Grainger Market
The wonderful Grainger Market opened in 1835, Newcastle's first supermarket. Its airy alleyways and newly refurbished domed roof is certainly worth a visit. Book a tour of the market and find out its secrets.
Greenses Arabs and Fish Tales Virtual Walk
Join local Archivist, Linda Bankier as she leads you on this short online walk to discover the stories of the families that lived and worked in the cottages and smokehouses of the Greenses. See buildings not featured in the in-person walk.
Guided Tour of Scotswood Station
Discover the fascinating history of Scotswood's railway network.
Guided Tour of St James' Graveyard
A chance to have an expert Guided Tour of a local historic graveyard.
Guided tour to our historic chapel and explanation of our work
Historic Chapel for Merchant Seafarers
Hands on heritage crafts at the Friendly Hound Studio
Hands on heritage crafts. Free have a go activities. Nature connections through creative crafts and herbalism. Explore the garden and studio. Find out about workshops and retreats at the Friendly Hound. Fun and engaging demonstrations and activities.
Jarrow Town Hall Tour
The town hall was the starting point for the Jarrow March,[7] a protest organised by the borough council over local poverty and, in particular, the impact on the local community of the closure of Palmer's Shipyard.
Jesmond Old Cemetery: a meander through the monuments.
Join the Friends of Jesmond Old Cemetery on one of our heritage tours, where we visit some of the final resting places of the famous, and not so famous, men and women who contributed so much to the history of Newcastle, the North East and beyond.
Kepier Hospital and Loggia
Guided tour with Martin Roberts of the Grade I and II * listed buildings and scheduled ancient monument of the medieval hospital at Kepier, once the richest in County Durham.
Lady Waterford Hall - People in the Paintings
Step back in time with a visit to the Lady Waterford Hall. Discover why this Victorian ‘model’ village’s schoolroom is home to a series of astounding Pre-Raphaelite murals and hear the story of the 'People in the Paintings'.
Lindisfarne Castle
A castle that's not a castle, on an island that's not an island.
New Wave Forum Film Makers' Party
Ten short films made by people aged 18-25 years old have been selected by a youth panel to be shown on our big screen in a glorious one-off film event that is free to all to come and enjoy.
Newbiggin Maritime Centre & Rocket House
Newbiggin By The Sea Historic Fishing Village dates back to 11th Century and is home of the Historic Woman Launchers Oldest working Lifeboat Station in the UK 13th Century St Bartholomew's Church Sean Henrys Couple.
Old Durham Gardens
Restored 17th to early 18th century formal gardens. View the listed features of the gardens and on-going planting improvements throughout the gardens.
Phoenix Hall Masonic Temple
Grade 1 listed - The Phoenix Hall built in 1785 is the only example of its type, Purpose built by Phoenix Lodge no 94 who still meet in the building.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Household Waste Recycling Centre & Waste Transfer Station Site Tour
This is a chance to see inside a Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) and Waste Transfer Station (WTS). Residents of Gateshead, Sunderland, and South Tyneside, join us to learn about what happens to your general waste and recycling.
Roker Pier Tunnel and Lighthouse Presentation
A one hour slide show presentation and talk on the Iconic and Historic Roker Pier Tunnel and Lighthouse. Taking place at Adventure Sunderland building on Marine Walk, first come first served, maximum 30 people.
Ryhope Engines Museum
The Ryhope Engines Museum is based on the former Ryhope Pumping Station which provided water to Wearside for 100 years. This is a unique opportunity to see the wonderful Victorian beam engines working under steam power as they have since 1868.
Segedunum Roman Fort
Free entry to the site over the weekend.
Sir Terry Farrell West Newcastle Walking Tour
A walking tour through and around the Centre for Life to learn about its development, construction and connection to Newcastle. May also include a walk to the river if time allows.
Souter Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse overlooking nature-rich clifftop grasslands, coastal park and rugged coastline.
South Shields Museum and Art Gallery
A guided tour of the current Scran! exhibition at South Shields Museum and Art Gallery, led by Assistant Keeper Adam Bell.
South Shields Town Hall
Take a unique tour of the magnificent grade ll listed building with the Mayor of South Tyneside
St Alban's Church, Earsdon
St Alban's was built in 1837 and is the third church on this prominent hill top site. Our Heritage Open Days event coincides with the annual Earsdon Scarecrow Festival so the village will be busy.
St Andrew's Church, Haughton le Skerne, Darlington
The oldest church in Darlington, c1125, including interesting stonework and woodwork. Some Saxon relic stonework and extensive 17th century 'Cosin' woodwork throughout the church.
St Barnabas Burnmoor Church
A visit to a lovely church where you can expect a warm welcome and refreshments.
St Cuthbert's Catholic Church, Durham
Visit this simple, peaceful church to rest a while or to see the stunning window by the world-famous Irish stained glass artist Harry Clarke or works by renowned local sculptor Fenwick Lawson.
St Cuthbert's Church Blaydon
St Cuthbert's will be open with special displays from the Blaydon and Winlaton History Society and Blaydon Photographic Society. Talk by Val Scully at 2pm Saturday. Refreshments available.
St Cuthbert's Church, Darlington
St. Cuthbert's Darlington, the Church in the Market Place is preparing to undergo a transformation, as we 'Open Our Doors', offering access for all to our architectural, historical and musical traditions.
St Johns Cemetery, Elswick
Take a tour of Newcastle's largest cemetery, which opened in 1857, the burial place of many historic local characters and with fabulous views.
St Laurence's Church, Pittington
Visit St Laurence Church. Refreshments available.
St Mary & St Thomas Aquinas Church Stella
Display of historical vestments. Pugin stained glass windows. Lovely gardens to walk around.
St Mary Magdalene's Church Millfield Sunderland
St Mary Magdalene's Church Sunderland Heritage Day 2024 All are welcome to come and share in our heritage. We look forward to hopefully seeing you then!
St Mary the Virgin, Easington
A 12th century Parish Church, with evidence of Saxon origins. The building contains Medieval pieces.
St Mary's Parish Church
The church tower will be open with access to the ringing chamber and the clock chamber.
St Michael and All Angels Church, Houghton le Spring
There has been a centre for worship on this site for thousands of years, Christian worship was first established with a stone building in the 9th Century. Guides and leaflets are available and we are part of the Northern Saints Heritage trail.
St.Nicholas Church, Rectory Bank
St. Nicholas is the parish Church of West Boldon and is a Grade I Listed Building. A great deal of the original Saxon stonework is still visible but the majority of the structure dates from the 13th Centuary.
Stephenson Steam Railway
Sunday 15th September. Workshop tours at Stephenson Steam Railway
Stephenson Steam Railway - Train Trip!
Take a four mile return trip on Sunday 15th September 2024
Stockton Road United Reformed Church
Discover Stockton Road United Reformed Church, open to the public this Heritage Open Days festival.
Tanfield Railway
HODs at Tanfield will feature informative guided tours of our sheds to view the current restoration projects. Visitors can also explore the hidden stories of one of the world's first railway landscapes.
The Banqueting House with a Grand Panorama
Nestling in the forest, The Banqueting House stands in a grassy clearing looking down towards an octagonal pool and the Derwent Valley, in the highest part of Gibside Park, near the Column of British Liberty and Gibside chapel.
The Bowes Museum
Enjoy free entry as The Bowes Museum joins in the Heritage Open Day scheme. Discover thousands of items from 500 years of human creativity. Explore our summer exhibition, watch the Silver Swan, and take part in artist led workshops and more.
The Corporation of the Newcastle upon Tyne Trinity House, Broad Chare
Trinity House is home to an historic maritime organisation. It is a Grade I listed building with its own Chapel (1505) and Banqueting Hall (1721) as well as other fascinating rooms. Maritime artefacts and paintings will be on display.
The East Quayside and Saint Ann's Church - Walking Tour
Discover the fantastic history of the East Quayside once a hub of Newcastle Industry.
The Fitzhugh Library
Visit the hidden gem of the Fitzhugh Library and its collection of photographs, books and documents concerning the County Palatine of Durham and the ecclesiastical parish of Romaldkirk. The Library contains over 70,000 items.
The Lost History of Bensham Grove Settlement
Come and see our beautiful jewel of a house in urban Gateshead. Regency and Victorian history and now inter war heritage in the form of an educational settlement. Help us decide on the last of our history trail in the form of an attic restoration.
The Old Booking Hall, Haltwhistle Railway Station
Explore the station! Learn about Thomas Edmondson whose invention of the card railway ticket in 1838 quickly went round the world, lasting into the 21st century. Take in some of our recent exhibitions and see what has happened in the Water Tower!
The Old Rectory
The Old Rectory will be open to view with displays, tours and worksheets. Come along and see our historic council chamber or catch a tour and discover the details you may have missed.
The Old Rectory Heritage Walk
A guided walk through the beautiful, historical Houghton Le Spring, Follow the historic "Saints Trail" and view some key sites that make up Houghton's fascinating history.
The Watch House Museum
Grade II listed 1880 Volunteer Life Saving Company Muster room with integral observation tower. View our collection of rocket apparatus, historic photographs and interpretation panels. Spectacular views out over cliffs and sea.
Thorpe Light Railway
An opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of Thorpe Light Railway, and hear about future plans.
Tour of Blackfriars 13th Century Former-Dominican Friary's Heritage
Enjoy a 45 minute tour of Blackfriars unique 13th century former-Dominican friary's heritage with a walk through it's medieval spaces and an explanation of its past to present.
TT2 LTD - (TYNE TUNNELS)
A behind the scene tour of the iconic Tyne Tunnels.
Walking tour of Ryhope Village Green with bestselling author Glenda Young showing locations from her books
Join author Glenda Young on a walking tour around Ryhope village green, showing the locations from her bestselling historical novels set in Ryhope.
Washington Old Hall
Visit Washington Old Hall free of charge
Watch House Tours
Visitors can wander around this iconic, hidden gem of a museum in the Watch House, volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions and expand on the history of the artefacts.
West Newcastle in Film
A fantastic free day of film showings about the history of Newcastle's West End.
Westbrook Guided Walk and Heritage Day
A guided walk through the normally gated private glade in the heart of Hopetown Darlington. Get involved in our plans for the 2025 bicentenary of the railway and celebrate the nature, architecture and social history that makes Westbrook unique.
Westgate Hill Cemetery
Guided tour of the graves in one of the earliest garden cemeteries in England, now a listed park and garden.
Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre
Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre will be hosting an exhibition to the memory of miners leader and county councillor Peter Lee in view of the Peterlee '75 event held at the end of 2023 - marking 50 years since the opening of the new town.