Free entry to Shropshire museums and attractions in heritage celebration
Sites and attractions across Shropshire are set to offer free entry and special events to visitors as part of the Heritage Open Days festival.
Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery, Shrewsbury Castle, Acton Scott Historic Working Farm, Shropshire Archives and Coleham Pumping Station are all open their doors for free or offering special events for a unique visitor experience.
The events will take place on the weekend of 14 September and 15 September 2019.
Fay Bailey, Shropshire Museums manager at Shropshire Council, said:
“From steam engines to shire horses to contemporary art, Shropshire Museums have the lot! We’re delighted to take part in Heritage Open Days every year. This national event offers a wonderful opportunity to visit so many stunning sites for free.”
Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September 2019 you can visit Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery for free.
During your visit you will be able to take in the eclectic collections on display, and experience the stunning Drawn of the Dead exhibition which features the original work of internationally-renowned comic book artist, Charlie Adlard.
Guided town tours
As well as free entry to the Museum, you can explore the medieval town of Shrewsbury by joining a free guided tour on Saturday 14 September at 2pm.
The guided tours usually cost £7.50.
Advanced booking is advised to ensure your place. You can book by emailing guided.tours@shropshire.gov.uk or calling 01743 258888.
Shrewsbury Castle
On Sunday 15 September only, a rare occurrence will take place at Shrewsbury Castle… the opening of Laura’s Tower.
Laura’s Tower is opened to the public just one day a year in celebration of the Heritage Open Days festival.
Laura’s Tower gives you truly unique views across Shrewsbury making it a special opportunity not to be missed.
The castle grounds will be free to enter as usual and the Regimental Museum which sits within the castle itself, will also be free to visit.
The Mercenaries of Mercia battle re-enactment group will also be at the Castle.
Acton Scott Historic Working Farm
The Victorian working farm will be free to enter on an activity-packed Saturday 14 September with loads of special events being held from 10am to 4.30pm.
You can have a go at being a vet with Severn Edge Vets in their teddy bear surgery, as well as meeting the farm animals and holding chicks throughout the day.
Shropshire Wildlife Trust, Cuan Wildlife Rescue and the RSPB will all be at the farm for you to talk with and learn more about the work they do to protect and preserve wildlife in the county.
You will also be able to see willow weavers demonstrating how to make baskets and other products and learn how to make rag rugs.
Shropshire Music Service will be bringing along a selection of instruments for you to have a go at playing, and Top of the Wall Music will have an exhibition of harps to you to see and play.
Dolly the Vintage Caravan will also be selling ice creams on the day for you to enjoy.
Shropshire Archives
Tuesday 17 September is your chance to see behind the scenes at Shropshire Archives and get a glimpse of the fantastic collections held there.
The records on display showcase items recently received into the archives. These include 20th century cartoons from a Shrewsbury business, diaries of a First World War trench map maker, and cards used in an elegant 18th century parlour game.
Refreshments will also be available.
This event has been very popular in past years, so early booking is advised. You can register for the event by clicking here.
The event will take place from 2pm – 3.30pm.
For more information about this event, click here.
Coleham Pumping Station
Coleham Pumping Station will be open on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September.
Shropshire Museums is part of Shropshire Council.
