Southampton residents and visitors are once again being invited to step inside the city’s remarkable medieval past this September, as Heritage Open Days returns with free opportunities to explore some of the city’s most historic places, including rarely seen spaces and hidden gems across the Old Town between Friday 11 to Sunday 20 September.

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest celebration of history and culture, opening the doors to buildings, stories and experiences that are not always available to the public. In Southampton, the programme will shine a spotlight on the city’s outstanding medieval heritage, from stepping inside the iconic Bargate and exploring ancient town walls to castle remains, vaults, towers and historic streets that helped shape Southampton’s identity as one of England’s great medieval ports.

The Lord Mayor of Southampton is also preparing to launch a new creative postcard competition, inspired by the city’s historic places. The competition will encourage artists, illustrators, sketchers and creatives to draw inspiration from the interiors of Southampton’s heritage buildings, with selected postcards set to be exhibited at Southampton City Art Gallery next year. Full details, including how to enter, will be announced soon.

Councillor Pat Evemy, The Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Southampton, said: “Southampton has an extraordinary story to tell. Our medieval walls, vaults, towers and historic buildings are part of the fabric of the city, but they can still surprise us, even those of us who know Southampton well! Heritage Open Days is a wonderful opportunity to look again at the places around us, step through doors we may not normally enter, and celebrate the history that makes our city so special, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Southampton of Norman kings, wine merchants, fortified walls and bustling quaysides.

“I am also looking forward to sharing more soon about a creative competition that will invite people to capture Southampton’s historic buildings through painting, drawing and sketching. Art is a huge part of my life and helps me switch off and find time for myself. I hope it will inspire people to see our heritage through fresh eyes and celebrate the beauty, character and detail of the city around them.”

Heritage Open Days events are free to attend, although some activities may require booking. Opening days, times and access arrangements vary by venue, so people are encouraged to check individual listings before visiting.

For more information about Heritage Open Days in Southampton, including participating venues and booking details where required, visit the Heritage Open Days website and search ‘Southampton’ in the location tab.  You can also find out more on the Visit Southampton website.