Enjoy free activities and events for Heritage Open Days

Visitors across the region can enjoy a range of free tours, talks and activities across North East Museums’ venues as part of Heritage Open Days. 

Heritage Open Days is England's largest community led festival of history and culture. 

Highlights for Heritage Open Days include: a special session to explore the archive of Jennie Shearan followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of the Tyne & Wear Archives. 

A day of free activities celebrating Northumberland's coal mining heritage and culture is taking place at Woodhorn Museum on Saturday 12 September. There's a variety of activities happening throughout the day, including a talk and tour of Community of Coal, a drop-in session with the Northumbria Lacemakers and a chance to see the High Spen Miners Dance Centenary Exhibition.  

At the Hatton Gallery, visitors can enjoy a tour focusing on the venue's rich heritage and take the time to explore The Potter’s Canvas: Ceramics and Painting in the 20th Century. The exhibition is open until 16 January 2027 and looks at how 20th-century British ceramicists used drawing, painting and mark-making to transform the surface of clay.  

Discover the hidden history of the Stephenson Steam Railway on a site tour with one of the knowledgeable volunteers. Take a look behind-the-scenes and explore the railway's rich heritage and the people who helped shape it. 

In addition, visitors can enjoy free entry to Segedunum Roman Fort, or a free guided tour at Arbeia, or a House of Correction tour at Hexham Old Gaol. 

Heritage Open Days is from 11-20 September. Find out more about what’s happening at North East Museums here.