Lots of free activities and days out will be taking place across Essex in the next two weeks, as part of England’s largest history and culture festival.

The Heritage Open Days programme combines a mix of in-person and digital events aimed at celebrating the places and spaces most important to communities across the country. 

This year’s theme is ‘hidden nature’ which aims to encourage us to spend time outdoors and to discover green spaces. 

Annie Reilly, Head of Producing at Heritage Open Days, said: “We have seen some ingenious approaches to culture going digital, from virtual tours and online galleries to up-close explorations of artefacts and objects, through to workshops and live-streamed debates.” 

Heritage Open Days is coordinated by the National Trust and supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery. 

All events are free, including access to many sites that usually charge for admission.

Will you be going to any of the events being held next week? Let us know in the comments.