08/09/2023 Connecting to Heritage: 5 Ways to Wellbeing

The Heritage Open Days are a great opportunity for individuals to connect with history and culture regardless of prior interest or understanding. The annual event is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture involving thousands of volunteers and organisations every year, with opportunities across England for people to experience something new for free. During the 10 days of Open Days, volunteers, staff and professionals work together to change perceptions of place and foster community pride.  

As a local organiser for Oswestry Town Museum aptly put it, "I love the team spirit that comes with multiple venues all working together to provide a 'special' event." Whether you're attending with a friend, making new acquaintances during your visits, or volunteering your time, Heritage Open Days offer numerous opportunities for meaningful connections. 

Embrace physical activity as a means of uncovering the rich heritage within your area. A local organiser from the Potteries Heritage Society said, "What better way to see the heritage in this city than get out on a bike, get some fresh air, make yourself a bit healthier and understand the diversity of the heritage we've got." Whether it's ascending the 175 steps of Lord Hill's Column in Shropshire, dancing at the Pilsudski Institute in London, or simply strolling from one site to another, heritage can help you engage your body and mind in diverse ways.  

Heritage Open Days invite you to discover hidden treasures that often lie right under your nose. A visitor in Lancashire noted that it, "Helps you realise what's hiding in plain sight, often on your doorstep." Be sure to keep an eye out for bright pink open signs to gain a fresh perspective on your local surroundings. 

Every Heritage Open Days event provides an opportunity for learning, whether it's through engaging conversations with volunteers or by simply exploring your surroundings. A visitor in Dorchester shared that, “Learning about the buildings made me feel that I belonged.” There are additional opportunities for different interests, with countless ‘meet the expert’ events ranging from garden tours to conservation demonstrations, and practical options too like calligraphy classes and bell-ringing drop-in sessions. 

Volunteering for Heritage Open Days can be a fulfilling experience, as expressed by a volunteer from Nottinghamshire: "It was a real privilege to help with this project, and I felt valued... I loved sharing the local knowledge I had learned with visitors." Thousands of volunteers give their time, energy and enthusiasm to help make Open Days happen, by doing so they are able to experience a sense of pride and belonging. Some organisations describe the Heritage Open Days as their most important volunteer recruitment platform. The festival helps to inspire others to volunteer, meaning that more people can feel benefit from feelings of pride and belonging.