England’s largest heritage festival returns to Swindon this September, celebrating history and culture through this year’s Heritage Open Days theme: “Routes, Networks, Connections”.
It’s your chance to explore hidden and familiar places, trying out new experiences in historic locations that are right on your doorstep. Swindon has even more to offer during this year’s festival, with plenty of venues open for free events and activities such as crafts, games, tours, talks, films, exhibitions and family activities.
Plan your festival now – it’s FREE TO DISCOVER!
What is Heritage Open Days?
Heritage Open Days 2024: Friday 6th – Sunday 15th September
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.
Find out more on the National Website Homepage
The festival is brought to you by the National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation charity, looking after nature, beauty and history for everyone to enjoy.
Fore more information about Heritage Open Days partners, click here.
So what’s happening in Swindon?
Last year, Swindon had 20 events taking place across the borough, where local organisations registered their events on the HODs website. This year there are over 30 free and unique activities on offer to local residents and visitors to Swindon.
2024 Map
Booking
All events are free, but some may require booking in advance. Please check individual event listings for booking guidance to avoid dissapointment.
Swindon Railway Village Heritage Festival – Sat 7th September
Emlyn Square is at the heart of Swindon’s historic Railway Village; It’s set to come alive with exclusive tours, exhibitions, talks, family games and activities – FREE for the whole family to enjoy for one day only.
All Swindon Heritage Preservation buildings will be open, and we have coordinated with partners to host a range of FREE HODs events, all located within Swindon’s historic Railway Village on Saturday 7th September 2024.
Event times may vary between sites, but largely take place between 11am and 4pm. All are within walking distance of each other so why not make a day of it?
Swindon Heritage Preservation Events
Saturday’s Timetable
We have created a ‘print ready’ timetable for Saturday 7th September, so that you can be sure not to miss the key moments..
How to get here
Please check all event listings directly for the most up to date and relevant information.
Travelling to the Railway Village?
Due to its central location, the Railway Village is easy to find, whether you are local to Swindon or just visiting.
By public transport
Emlyn Square is easily reachable by train or bus, and the trail is only a short walking distance from the Central Bus Station.
By car
We recommend using Bristol Street Car Park which is located at a central point along the trail.
Parking is also available at the Swindon Designer Outlet where you can join the Heritage trail from the main entrance.
