Nottingham Heritage Open Days — 8 of the best events around the county
Discover Nottinghamshire’s best kept secrets for free...
Nottinghamshire is filled with so much wonderful history — and Heritage Open Days are one of the best ways to explore this.
These are free events that offer access and insights into areas that usually aren’t open or are usually ticketed. We’ve curated a range of these from across the county, such as art workshops, tours, and puzzles. These have been narrowed down based on how unique they are.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham this September, Heritage Open Days are a real highlight of this month. For more 2025 events and local activities, subscribe to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
8 Heritage Open Days events around Nottinghamshire
By Eve Smallman
1. Inspire Nottinghamshire Archives Escape
When: September 13
Where: Nottinghamshire Archives, Nottingham
Pre-booking required?: Yes
Put on your detective hat and get ready to solve a mystery like no other. You’ll need to escape the vast archives by gathering clues that will teach you about the city and county’s heritage along the way. These will be buried within the archives, as well as augmented reality. Oh, and to add extra jeopardy, there will be a time limit — so no pressure.
Do if: You enjoy escape rooms and are up for a new challenge.
2. Family Artwork Event
When: September 13
Where: Framework Knitters Museum, Ruddington
Pre-booking required?: Yes
Utilising this year’s Heritage Open Days theme of architecture, this art workshop led by Debra Webster will teach your little ones how to create art based on the fascinating buildings and contents of the Framework Knitters Museum. There are few spots remaining, so you might want to be quick. And if you’re an adult artist, there is an adult-only version of the event on September 16.
Do if: You have kids who love getting creative in new ways.
3. Lowdham Signal Box
When: September 13-14 and September 20-21
Where: The Sidings, off Station Road, Lowdham
Pre-booking required?: Preferred but not required
Between the two world wars, there were 15,000 signal boxes, which allowed signalmen to control railway points and signals to avoid accidents. Learn about this almost-forgotten art, finding out about the equipment, pulling levels, as well as watching demonstrations with virtual trains passing the box. The Lowdham Signal Box is particularly impressive as it has been restored to its 1950s condition.
Do if: You love all things mechanical and technical.
4. History of Gedling House and Kadampa Buddhism
When: September 14
Where: Gedling House, Gedling
Pre-booking required?: No
While you might have visited the lovely woods around it, you likely haven’t been inside this remarkable Grade II Georgian mansion. You’ll be able to walk around, find out about the house and its occupants, attend a talk by local historian Mo Cooper, and enjoy refreshments in the grand dining room or garden. It currently serves as the Kadampa Meditation Centre, so you’ll also be able to try out meditation and find out about Buddhism if you’d like.
Do if: You’d love to visit somewhere truly relaxing — it’s beautiful whether you go down the spiritual route or not.
5. Cricket Ground and Heritage Centre
When: September 15-16
Where: Trent Bridge, West Bridgford
Pre-booking required?: No
Trent Bridge is one of the most iconic cricket grounds in the country, having seen many famous moments and created stars like Harold Larwood and Stuart Broad. Discover more about it by delving into its huge cricket library, which is the second-largest of its kind in the world. There will also be volunteers on hand to share social history, plus the opportunity to enjoy county-wide views from the highest grandstand.
Do if: You’d like to learn more about the area’s sporting heritage beyond just football.
6. Paper Stitch Sampler
When: September 17-19
Where: Debbie Bryan, Nottingham
Pre-booking required?: No
Nottingham’s lace history is world-renowned — and you can truly observe the beauty of it during this paper stitch sampler workshop. You’ll stitch on top of salvaged Nottingham lace drawings and Cyanotype blueprints, creating your own little masterpiece. Plus, explore the full Debbie Bryan Nottingham Lace Archive, which is filled with technical illustrations, antique Nottingham lace trims and motifs, and more.
Do if: You enjoy crafting and would like to explore a new technique.
7. National Justice Museum Historical Trial Reenactment
When: September 21
Where: National Justice Museum, Nottingham
Pre-booking required?: Preferred but not required
Usually a paid ticket opportunity, this Victorian trial reenactment is completely free on this date. You’ll watch the trial of notorious thief William Cook play out, with family friendly adjustments. Did he really try and escape prison, or was it all just a misunderstanding? The Civil Courtroom is rarely open to the public, making this a very special opportunity indeed.
Do if: You’re a big fan of true crime.
8. Echoes of Erewash Canal
When: September 21
Where: Sandiacre Lock Cottage
Pre-booking required?: Preferred but not required
One of the last lock cottages in the canal’s heritage, this was built in 1779 and has been maintained beautifully. Marvel at the artefacts, pictures, and storyboards, as well as tucking into homemade cakes and biscuits in the picnic areas, which offer lovely views. You can also participate in walking and cycling routes along the canal to Mills Dockyard, which is also opening its doors on the same day.
Do if: Spending a wholesome autumnal day by the water sounds wonderful to you.
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