Heritage Open Days

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Bath Spa University to open its doors for Heritage Open Days

This September Bath Spa University will open the doors of its Newton Park campus to the public as part of Heritage Open Days. The event will give visitors an opportunity to explore the University’s rich history and vibrant culture through a variety of engaging activities and displays. 

Heritage Open Days is the country’s largest festival of history and culture. Founded in 1994, the festival has been capturing imaginations for 30 years. Last year, more than 45,000 organisers and volunteers ran over 5,000 events across the country, attracting one million visits. 

During the two-day event, members of the public will be able to explore several buildings around Newton Park, including the Grade I listed Main House, the remnants of the 14th century Newton St Loe Castle and 15th century Gatehouse, and the beautiful grounds designed by the famous English landscape architect Capability Brown. Visitors will also be able to take part in activities and workshops celebrating the University’s past, as well as work and life at BSU in the present. 

Suzanne Harris, Audience Experience and Development Leader, said: 

“We're so excited to be joining Heritage Open Day for the first time. Our campus is rich in heritage and very beautiful and we're sure everyone will enjoy some time with us. People have been living and working at Newton Park for many centuries, and now it is home to our students and staff. We want visitors to enjoy our historic buildings and landscape and get to know what we do and how we live now.” 

Some of the activities and experiences planned during the weekend include: 

• Self-guided audio tour to learn about the history of Main House. Visitors will also have access to historic ground floor rooms and a display of theatre production materials, including costumes and multimedia presentations.  
• Peruse the Library’s Special Collection, featuring rare and old books not usually on display, and browse signed first editions by talented BSU staff, students, and alumni. 
• Activities for young people and children, including Story Detectives writing workshop, i-Spy activities and an interactive treasure hunt, Lego and puzzles. 
• Relax in the Walled Garden with games, bean bags and picnic tables, plus gardening tips from the BSU grounds team. 
• Guided campus tours ending at the Commons TV Studio, where guests will find a display of photos and memories from alumni, staff, and community members. 
• Poetry reading and discussion of Wordsworth by the lake with renowned BSU scholar John Strachan. 

Heritage Open Days at BSU will take place from 7-8 September at Newton Park campus. For more information about Heritage Open Days you can visit their website.