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08
Sept 2021
Free Heritage Open Days events to explore district’s hidden history
Places that are usually closed to the public are preparing to open their doors for free as part of Heritage Open Days, which starts on Friday and ends on September 19.
About 30 venues in the Harrogate district are among the hundreds taking part in the event, which is coordinated nationally by the National Trust.
In Harrogate, a number of events are being organised by Harrogate Civic Society. Some events require advanced booking, and some are already fully booked.Bookworms can learn about the history of, and resources held, at Harrogate Library in tours on Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 September.
On both Sunday September 12 and 19, the newly restored old magnesia well pump room in Valley Gardens will be open to visitors. Elsewhere, the private chapel at Rudding Park will be open for people to admire its spectacular architecture and masonry, on Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 September.
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There is an emphasis on outdoor activities, with several local walking tours in the line-up all week – including around Crescent Gardens, Valley Drive, New Park, and central Harrogate.
At Stonefall Cemetery, tours of the 1,000 Commonwealth war graves are taking place throughout the week.
Elsewhere in the district, on Friday 10 September, there’s the chance to explore the once luxury royal residence of Knaresborough Castle Keep, including the king’s chamber and dungeon.
Free entry will also be available for visitors to the Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal World Heritage Site on Saturday 18 September.
In Ripon, options to explore include St Wilfrid’s church, the Chapel of St Mary Magdalen, and the Ripon & District Light Railway.
Sarah Holloway, programme manager for Heritage Open Days, said:
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