One of Harrogate's most historic family businesses is to offer tours during this year's Heritage Open Days.

The annual open days, which take place from September 8 to 17, give people the chance to visit historic and cultural sites for free.

Harrogate Civic Society, which organises events in and around Harrogate, is finalising its list for 2023 but is already advertising more than 20.

Among the highlights are visits to jewellers and watch-makers Ogden of Harrogate, which has been a feature of James Street since 1893. Visitors have included Winston Churchill, the Roosevelts and King George VI.

Tours hosted by two of the fifth-generation family members will reveal artefacts relating to the business and family history, plus its in-house workshop and the firm's 1937 replica of the imperial state crown.

Visitors will also learn about James Roberts Ogden's interest in archaeology and his work with Howard Carter to test and replicate ancient objects found in the 1922 discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

This year's Heritage Open Days also includes new heritage walks led by experts in Pannal, Ripley and Valley Gardens, along with tours of the belltower at St Wilfrid's on Duchy Road in Harrogate, Stonefall Cemetery and the Harrogate Club.

Outside Harrogate, there is the chance to explore How Stean Gorge in Nidderdale, stroll in the surroundings of Ripon's 18th century gazebo and have a backstage tour of Pateley Playhouse.

Events are free but many have to be booked. Further details and a searchable list of events is available here.

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