‘There’s something for everyone’: Milton Keynes celebrates 20 years of heritage open days
More than 300 free events are taking place across Milton Keynes throughout September, as the city celebrates its 20th edition of heritage open days.
The events, which are being delivered by 84 organisations across 10 days, celebrate everything from ancient history through to modern architecture.
The first heritage open day festival in Milton Keynes in 2006 featured just 15 events, and now 20 years on, this year’s edition is set to be one of the biggest in the country according to the Milton Keynes Living Archive, which is coordinating the festival on behalf of the city council.
An online directory provides a full list of the events which are all free to attend and includes free walks and tours around towns and villages, as well as open days at churches and other locations including the Open University and Bletchley Park.
There will also be exhibitions exploring art ranging from painting to textiles, as well as the city’s hip-hop culture, with organisers promising something for everyone.
Milton Keynes City Council leader Jane Carr said: “Milton Keynes heritage open days tells the story of a city that's always been bold, creative and shaped by its communities.
“As we bid to become UK City of Culture 2029, this year's festival is a reminder that Milton Keynes has an incredible story to tell and a bright future ahead."
A spokesperson for the Living Archive added: “Milton Keynes heritage open days simply would not happen without the dedication of dozens of organisations and hundreds of volunteers who give their time, enthusiasm and expertise to make the festival possible - thank you to every one of them.”