Heritage Open Days Week 2021: Free Places to Visit in Kent Posted on 10 September 2021 by Amber Gravenell in General The 10th to the 19th September 2021 is Heritage Open Days Week! It is England’s largest celebration of history and culture. It is an event which unites local communities and organisations and involves thousands of hardworking volunteers. During this week, historical and cultural landmarks across England open their doors in celebration of history, community and heritage. It is an ideal opportunity to explore new places and try new things with no cost. Heritage Open Days Week is completely free so why not take part in this historical celebration?5 Places to Visit in Kent During Heritage Open Days Week1) Crampton Tower Museum – The Broadway, Broadstairs, CT10 2ABDid you know that one of Kent’s residents was the leading 19th century engineer, Thomas Crampton? Crampton resided in Broadstairs and is renowned for his work in civil engineering. He designed the first standardised locomotive, named Firefly, for the Great Western Railway. In the Crampton Tower Museum you can find out more about Thomas Crampton’s work and observe operational railway setups featuring interactive buttons. Alongside this, you will find relics of the Victorian Era with a display of Victorian clothing to behold. The Crampton Tower Museum is taking part in Heritage Open Days Week on the 18th and 19th September. On the Saturday, it is open 14:00 to 16:30 and on the Sunday, it is open 10am to 4pm. Find out more about the Crampton Tower Museum on their website!2) Franciscan Gardens – 60 Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BEWhy not take a day trip to the wonderful city of Canterbury? During the day, you can escape to the tranquil Franciscan Gardens. The beautiful gardens have been recently restored. You will be able to absorb the emblematic planting, take in the peace and quiet and enjoy the Greyfriars Chapel. Steeped in history and culture, the gardens are a must-see. The gardens are open for Open Days Week on Saturday 18th September from 10am to 5pm. Visit the Franciscan Gardens website for further information about this charming retreat. 3) The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge – 18 High Street, Canterbury, CT1 2RAThe Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is a delightful addition to the Open Days Week agenda. Open on the 18th September at 11am for the Open Days Week, you can enjoy a guided tour of the Beaney House galleries where you can observe prominent artefacts and works of art. The guided tour is only operating at the stated date and time and pre-booking is essential to attend the tour. Of course, the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is open all year round in addition to the open day! Visit the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge website to learn more. 4) Deal Maritime & Local History Museum - 22 St. Georges Road, Deal, CT14 6BAAnother fantastic place to explore during Open Days Week is the Deal Museum. It is a fascinating exhibition of life through the ages in Deal, Walmer and the local area. You will find a highly interactive exhibition dedicated to the Royal Marines, you can partake in quizzes and observe films and displays to find out more about Deal’s interesting history. There are also boats – both full size and model – alongside information on the lifeboats and locals. Venture out into the boat yard to find more boats, a graveyard and WW1 trench. You can visit on Saturday 18th 2021 between 1pm and 4pm. 5) Heritage Walk – Dover Priory Railway Station, Dover, CT17 9SBIf you are seeking an active way to celebrate Open Days Week then this guided walk is ideal. You can partake in a guided walk in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is described as a cross-country walk with some hill walking. You will be able to observe edible plants, keep a watchful eye out for local wildlife and absorb stunning views. The guide leading the tour has 33 years experience and knowledge of the area in and around the White Cliffs of Tower, so you can expect a rich, varied and interesting tour. Visit the Open Days Website to find out more information about this guided walk. There are dozens more places to visit during Heritage Open Days Week which you can view on their website. If you are looking for things to do in Kent then take a look at our blog '10 Places to Visit in Kent for a Peaceful Escape'.