Buildings and events open for heritage weekend
European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) promises to be exciting this year, with nearly 400 properties opening their doors to visitors for free this weekend (Saturday 9 to Sunday 10 September).
20th anniversary
This year marks the 20th year of European Heritage Open Days in Northern Ireland – a special celebration of our built heritage. The event provides a great chance for the public to see behind closed doors and experience the magic of our historic environment.
To mark this milestone many buildings which were part of the original EHOD in 1997 are opening again. There are also special conservation area walks for you to enjoy. Highlights include:
Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum, Carrickfergus
An 18th century thatched stone cottage restored as a tribute to seventh President of the USA Andrew Jackson, whose parents lived nearby.
The Redoubt in Enniskillen
A hidden historic gem, this stoned-walled redoubt sits on Windmill Hill. It was built in 1796, with walls 142 foot long, 20 feet high, 15 feet thick, and a moat 10 foot deep as a fortification to the town’s West Bridge and to Enniskillen Castle.
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium
Enjoy a guided tour of the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s grounds and gardens – the Astropark. Enjoy a scale model of the solar system, the Hill of Infinity, the Around North exhibit, and the natural environment of our woodland walk.
Newtownstewart Guided Walk
The village, located on the River Mourne, was once a centre for the linen industry, now a focal point for agricultural hinterland. The walk and guided tour by architect Manus Deery will feature buildings of architectural and historical interest.
European Heritage Open Days
If you want to find out more about what and when properties are opening, what events are on, and if you need to book, you can get information and download the brochure at the following link:
Keep up-to-date with European Heritage Open Days on Facebook and on Twitter (@ehodni).
The weekend promises to have something for everyone so why not come along and enjoy a little bit of history right on your doorstep?