Discover Wirral’s remarkable past with Heritage Open Days
England’s biggest festival of history and culture returns this week and dozens of places across Wirral will be opening their doors to offer a rare glimpse inside.
The 10 day festival runs from Friday 12 to Sunday 21 September 2025, with more than 80 local buildings and spaces opened for the public to enjoy around 160 immersive walks, tours, events, and activities.
The Chair of Wirral History & Heritage Association, Paul Smith, said:
Wirral has a very rich heritage, and you are never far from some wonderful buildings or historic landscapes - however, many of us have no idea about what lies inside, how they came about or the role those places have played in history.
Heritage Open Days are the perfect chance to change that by having a look inside some hidden places or taking a guided walk to learn about how they came to be, what happened there, or even how they have influenced things around the world.
None of this would be possible without the generosity of the site owners, or the hundreds of volunteers who support the Wirral History & Heritage Association, who deserve a huge thank you for the knowledge, enthusiasm and time the give to the festival.
Wirral’s contribution to this year’s national theme of 'Amazing Architecture' is extensive, allowing visitors to explore a diverse range of buildings, including medieval Birkenhead Priory, the iconic 18th-century Leasowe Lighthouse, the Victorian-era Bidston Observatory, and the elegantly classical Byrne Avenue Baths with its striking Art Deco detailing.
Wirral’s Heritage Champion, Councillor Jerry Williams, said:
Wirral is blessed with layer upon layer of incredible history, with everything from prehistoric artifacts, Viking settlements, Roman roads, and momentous royal visits in the middle ages, to one of the most significant parks ever created, glorious ‘model’ villages and the childhood homes of actors, sportspeople and musicians who took the whole world by storm.
Heritage Open Days provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of these, and best of all, it’s all free to enjoy.
Now in its 31st year, Heritage Open Days are presented by The National Trust with support from players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.
A full list local events and their opening times is available on the Wirral History & Heritage Association website. You can also pick up a free programme, supported by culture funding from Wirral Council, from libraries and many other community buildings around the area.
For more information about Heritage Open Days across the country visit heritageopendays.org.uk.
