People are being invited to explore Reading and learn more about the town’s culture and history, as part of Heritage Open Day events.
Reading Heritage Open Days 2010, take place from September 9th-12th.
Every year, the Reading Council co-ordinates a programme for Heritage Open Days, working in partnership with English Heritage, to allow people access to architecturally and historically important buildings that are not normally open to the public.
There is also a varied supporting programme of walks and other activities that focus on Reading’s local heritage and culture.
This year, the Council has organised for some exciting new additions to add to the programme, as well as a new look guide, which categorises the events and activities into areas: town centre, north, south, east and west Reading.
Highlights taking place in the Reading town, include a guided tours around Forbury Gardens and Abbey Ruins, an Industrial Heritage Film Show, Live Drama at Reading Central Library, a Waterways Walk led by Reading Civic Society knitting workshop at Jacksons and a Who Do You Think You Are? session at Reading Central Library.
To the north of Reading, a Living Memories Reminiscence Morning will be hosted by U3A (University of the Third Age) at New Directions North Reading Centre in Caversham whilst Joan Dils, President of the History of Reading Society, will lead a Caversham in History Guided Walk,
There’s a Reading Green Park wind turbine discovery day in the south of the town and a chance to learn all about the history of St Giles Church.
Get a behind the scenes tour of the Museum of English Rural Life in Redlands Road and a peak into the history of Royal Berkshire Hospital at the Royal Berkshire Medical Museum.
And at Berkshire Record Office go Inside the Vaults and find out all about Berkshire’s fascinating history.
Tom Stanway, Reading’s Lead Councillor for Culture and Sport, said: "The Heritage Open Days are a great way to find about all the hidden gems in Reading. Whether is to tour the Abbey ruins and find out about its past or to find out about how we can generate power for the future, I know that we have something to cater for everyone. By offering more each year we are able to show what a vibrant, exciting and historic town we live in. I hope everyone who goes and finds out about the hidden aspects of each building, will have the pride in the town that we live in increased.”
For further information, call Jo Keen, during office hours, on 0118 937 2373.
Reading Borough Council
