HERITAGE Open Days are returning this year between September 11 and 20 despite the difficulties caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The festival of history and culture normally sees several special activities at notable buildings in the Keighley and Craven areas.

This year there are a smaller number of in-person events, including behind-the-scenes tours and family activities, supported by virtual tours, interactive workshops and digital experiences.

This year’s theme is Hidden Nature, featuring the natural history and stories of our landscapes, gardens, urban green spaces, farms, waterways, buildings and culture.

Organisers of all event are being asked to adhere to local government guidelines at the time to ensure a safe and relaxing visit.

Annie Reilly, Head of Producing at Heritage Open Days, said: “Heritage Open Days is all about sharing amazing stories of the places, spaces, nature, heritage and history around us, and feeling part of a community has never been more important.

“We’ve been planning new ways to keep people connected with each other and their local area, whether it’s from home with our new digital programme or exploring Hidden Nature in the great outdoors.”

Among activities in the region:

⦁ A bird walk at Ilkley Manor House at Gallery and Museum, with a courtyard garden and a grass expanse at the back with the remains of the Roman town of Olicana.

⦁ An online guided walk in the area around Manningham Mills in Bradford.

⦁ A walk around High Royds memorial chapel, garden and nature reserve, the last resting place for 2,861 former pauper patients of the West Riding.

⦁ An exploration of the history, ecology, flora and fauna of this hidden gem at Parkinson’s Park in the centre of Guiseley.

⦁ Daily videos exploring the hidden nature on and around Bradford Cathedral.

⦁ Online storytelling for children and adults featuring cases heard at Otley Courthouse in the 19th and 20th centuries.

⦁ ‘Hide and Seek an exploration of the Victorian Gothic revival Masterpiece that is All Souls’ Church in Halifax.

Full listings of all the activities are available online, and can be searched by location. Online events can be viewed nationwide.

Visit heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting for further information