Every September thousands of volunteers across England organise events to celebrate our fantastic history and culture. It's your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
Leeds and West Yorkshire has a number of places to explore, some of which are usually out-of-bounds to the public, giving a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at some of the area’s most interesting locations.
Brought to you by the National Trust, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and powered by thousands of local organisations and volunteers, the festival invites everyone to explore and connect with their local area.
This year sees the biggest programme yet in the festival’s 31-year history, with more than 5,800 events - including a wide range of places that usually charge entry fees, free sites that put on extra special events for the festival, and access to many places that aren't usually open to the public. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, there’s something for everyone.
The events are running from September 12 to September 21.
Below are some of the events happening around the area, with details of when you can explore. You can also search on the Heritage Open Days website here for more ideas.
7. Victorian Ballad recitals
Leeds Central Library, Calverley Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3AB Leeds Central Library is hosting a week of lunchtime recitals of Victorian Ballads, played and performed live by a host of enthusiastic volunteers. Taking place in the new Music Library, be entertained by performances of the often-comical pieces for piano in the beautiful setting of the library. Monday 15 September: 1300-1400 Tuesday 16 September: 1300-1400 Wednesday 17 September: 1300-1400 Thursday 18 September: 1300-1400 Friday 19 September: 1300-1400 Pre-booking not required | Submitted
8. Architecture and Faith Connections: Jamia Masjid Abu Huraira (Mosque)
Catherine Grove, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 6LU Explore a splendid mosque, built in 2018, with one of the largest chandeliers in Leeds. Discover the architecture and the faith, customs and culture of Islam. The tour will explain the history of this impressive mosque, the high quality of the building materials used, the symbolism on the bronze doors and throughout the building. Visitors are asked to dress modestly, head covering preferred but not compulsory and shoes to be left on entry. Saturday 13 September: 10.00 - 12.00; tour at: 10.15 Pre-booking not required | Google Street View
9. Architecture and Faith Connections: the GNNSJ Gurudwara
78 Lady Pit Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 6DP A warm welcome awaits you at this Gurudwara, beautifully converted from a Ringtons Tea premises. Find out about the building and the Sikh faith, traditions and culture; including a tour of the building and refreshments. How has the exterior of the building changed and how has it been adapted inside? What are the five Ks and why are they important? There will be an opportunity to find out the answers to the above questions and more. A simple head covering is required and can be provided if necessary. Shoes to be left in the entrance- socks or own slippers acceptable. Saturday 13 September: 11.30 -13.00 with tour at 11.30 Pre-booking not required | Google Street View
10. Architecture and Plants
St John the Evangelist Church, 23 New Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8JD Dr Emma Storr and Professor Barry Strickland-Hodge will consider the aesthetic appeal of plants and flowers in architecture and their use in remedies. Many of Leeds magnificent 19th century buildings include floral designs on columns, facades or in stained glass. Some of these portray medicinal plants whereas others are symbols of religious beliefs. Friday 19 September: 12.30 Pre-booking not required | Google Street View