Gawthorpe Hall and Queen Street Mill among heritage gems opening to public
Some of Burnley and Clitheroe's most fascinating historic sites will be opening their doors to the public for free as part of a major celebration of the county's heritage.
Gawthorpe Hall and Queen Street Mill Textile Museum in Burnley, along with Clitheroe Library, are among the local venues taking part in this year's Heritage Open Days Festival this Saturday.
The annual event is England's largest festival of history and culture, giving residents and visitors the chance to explore historic buildings and discover more about the places and stories that have shaped their communities.
Across Lancashire, libraries, landmarks and museums will host a programme of free events, including guided tours, talks, exhibitions and family activities.
In Burnley, visitors will be able to take the opportunity to explore two of the area's best-known heritage attractions – Gawthorpe Hall and Queen Street Mill Textile Museum.
Gawthorpe Hall, the historic Elizabethan house at Padiham, is renowned for its links to the Shuttleworth family and its impressive collection of textiles, while Queen Street Mill provides a glimpse into Burnley's industrial past and the town's once-thriving cotton industry.
Meanwhile, Clitheroe Library will also be taking part, giving local people another opportunity to explore and celebrate the area's heritage.
Heritage Open Days offers the public the chance to discover hidden places and enjoy new experiences without having to pay an entrance fee, with events taking place at venues across England throughout the festival.
One of the highlights in the county is the Heritage Open Day from 10am to 4pm on Saturday September 19th, when visitors will have the opportunity to explore County Hall, Christ Church Chapel and Lancashire Archives, in Preston.