See heritage and history on our doorstep
September 9 to 18 Heritage Open Days All areas
Invention and exploration meet for this year's Heritage Open Days. The scheme offers access to all kinds of places including some not usually open to the public.
To find more places to visit and about this year's theme of invention, search www.heritageopendays.org.uk
W Feather & Flight: A Bird Trail of Eton College Collections at
Eton College.
Meet at Brewhouse Yard, at the end of Baldwin’s Shore, Eton High Street, on Sunday September 11 and 18, 2.30-5pm, no booking.
Pick up a free entry map from Brewhouse Yard and follow the trail for a unique chance to see objects related to feathery friends in the college's museums and galleries. Find out more about their importance to individuals across the globe and throughout histor y.
Stops on the trail include – Museum of Eton Life – Exhibition: To Botany Bay and Back: The Worldwide Web of Sir Joseph Banks on display in the Tower Gallery
– Exhibition: Humphrey Ocean: Fresh as Paint on display in the Verey Gallery – Natural History Museum – Museum of Antiquities
The trail will also include a range of craft activities.
W Explore the Cliveden Estate , Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL1 8NS. Tuesday to Thursday, September 13 to 14. Grounds visits 9.30 to 5pm, house visits 11-12.30 (free but must be pre-booked at the Information Centre on the day).
Set high above the Thames with far-reaching views, Cliveden’s vibrant gardens capture the grandeur of a bygone age. The formal gardens give way to secluded glades, tree-lined avenues and picturesque riverside with miles of woodland walks to discover.
Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls and royalty as you explore a series of gardens, each with their own special charm.
From the fragrant Rose Garden, with undulating paths through layers of colourful blooms, to the vast parterre with its geometric beds and far-reaching views, there is something for everyone.
Cliveden House now operates as a luxury hotel, but short tours will be bookable for visitors. History talks on the South Terrace and tours through the gardens will also be available.
The Ranger team will be welcoming visitors to help with their works in the woodlands. The 50 Things To Do At Cliveden pack is available to pick up from the Information Centre, and is a great way to get to know the estate and venture off the beaten track to discover new places.
W Marlow Place
Station Road, Marlow, SL7 1NB. Saturday, September 10, 10am4pm. No booking required.
Visit this Georgian gem in the centre of Marlow. The early 18th century housewas built for John Wallop, later Earl of Portsmouth. It is a Grade I listed building built in brick with impressive plaster decorations both outside and inside. Three rooms will be open with photo and art exhibitions.
A guided tour of Victorian Marlow with an experienced guide for £3 per adult. The tour lasts about an hour and will cover the area between the High Street and the station, Contact Geoff Wood, 07761 645409.
W Other nearby open days include St Mary Magdalene Church in Boveney; Royal Holloway, University of London Egham, including the Picture Gallery and Grade I listed Founder’s Building; South Hill Park mansion in Bracknell which includes a Hidden History QR code treasure hunt plus a trail for younger children.