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| Heritage Open Days |
From an insight into the New Forest tradition of commoning to a chance to step inside a lighthouse generator room - people are being offered the opportunity to explore the New Forest's heritage free of charge from 7-10 September.
A programme of Heritage Open Days in Hampshire has been co-ordinated by Hampshire County Council as part of a national initiative by The Civic Trust.
Running for the 13th consecutive year, the open days enable people to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture for free.
Many of these places are normally closed to the public, while others usually charge.
The Verderer's Hall at The Queen's House in Lyndhurst will be open from 10.30am to 1pm on 9 September. People will have the opportunity to visit this historical building, chat to a ranger and learn more abut the New Forest tradition of commoning and the work of the Verderers
Calshot Castle, a coastal fort built by Henry VIII to command the sea passage to Southampton, will be open to the public on 8 September from 10am to 4pm.
At Hurst Point Lighthouse on Hurst Spit in Keyhaven, people will have the chance to see the last remaining complete example of an `acetylene generator room', which provided power for two lighthouses from 1922 to 1970. People are welcome to see the generator room from 7-10 September 11am to 5pm.
The Ringwood Meeting House, Hampshire's best example of an early non-conformist chapel, will open its doors on 7-9 September from 10am to 4pm. An exhibition entitled `A New Forest Childhood' will be on display along with local photographs and exhibits.
The County Council's Executive Member for Recreation and Heritage, Councillor Margaret Snaith, said:
"There is a rich network of historic buildings, churches, mills, forts and countryside attractions in Hampshire and Heritage Open Days are about encouraging and enabling people to discover them.
Volunteers at various sites are available to share their expertise and knowledge with visitors, making the open days an excellent way of learning more about the county's history in a fun and interactive way."
For a list of sites taking part in Hampshire's programme of Heritage Open days visit the County Council's Heritage Open Days website or contact one of the County Council Information Centres on 0800 093 2552.
Heritage Open Days is a national initiative co-ordinated by The Civic Trust and aims to improve access to and appreciation of the nation's heritage. |
