Dudley Town Centre opening doors for Heritage Open Day

The event is a celebration of the country’s architecture and culture, and venues not usually open to the public allow access to enable visitors to discover the hidden treasures lying within.

People will be able to view the largely unchanged courtroom, which retains its original fittings and furnishings at the Coroner’s Court, visit the Baylies’s Charity School established in 1732 to teach local boys, and can see the grade 11 listed Crown Public House.

There will be the chance to step back in time at the Unitarian Old Meeting House, which is one of the oldest buildings in Dudley.  Visitors will also be able to sit in the council chamber where important decisions are made, and then have a rare behind the scenes, peek into well-known places of worship, including the ancient ‘Top’ and ‘Bottom’ churches and Dudley’s Catholic Church.

Cllr Ian Kettle, cabinet member for planning and economic development said:

This is a fabulous opportunity for anyone interested in history, architecture or the law to come in and view these lovely buildings, which are normally closed to the general public.

Dudley borough has a very proud heritage and many historically important buildings, and it is important doors are opened to visitors so people can come and look around. We should all celebrate our heritage. This is a real treat for anyone interested in our rich architectural heritage.

Anyone wishing to view the buildings should turn up at most venues between 10am and 4pm.  No booking is required.  People are advised that there are steps in some of the venues.

Dudley Castle will also be open for viewings on the evenings of 19 and 20 September.  This is a pre-bookable event, with details available to view at www.dudleyzoo.org.uk.

Heritage Open Days is a scheme that encourages owners of historically important buildings to open them free of charge to the public.  For more details on Heritage Open Days go to www.heritageopendays.org.uk

The Heritage Open Day is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund through the Dudley Townscape Heritage programme.