HERITAGE DAYS OUT
Every year in September, people and places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their community and history for Heritage Open Days − and it’s all free. Here are some weird and wonderful highlights to discover on your doorstep
GIGGLESWICK SCHOOL CHAPEL
With its impressive copper dome and stunning interior, Giggleswick School Chapel, designed by T.G. Jackson, a leading architect of the time, is an imposing landmark that is rarely open to the public. Originally gifted to the school by the famous philanthropist Walter Morrison of Malham, it was built in 1897 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. During the chapel’s open days there will be musical performances from members of the school community, including performances on the famous Henry Willis organ. On Sunday, September 17 there will also be a chapel service to which all visitors are welcome. Giggleswick School, Giggleswick, Settle, North Yorkshire, BD24 0DE
H.M. PRISON HULL
Hopefully the closest you’ll ever come to staying at his majesty’s pleasure, the Behind These Walls exhibition, hosted within H.M. Prison Hull, is a rare insight into the last 150 years of the prison − which opened in 1870 − and other custodial establishments across the city. One such story is that of Ethel Major, the last person and only woman to be executed at Hull in 1934, convicted of the murder of her husband. Brought to life through rarely seen photos and other artefacts, this is a fabulous opportunity to take a peek behind its infamous walls. For security reasons, entry is restricted to the exhibition only. September 13 and 14. Hedon Road, Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU9 5LS
CHALK TOWER, FLAMBOROUGH
Built more than three centuries ago in 1674, few have had chance to venture inside Chalk Tower. Originally constructed as an early lighthouse, with passing ships asked to pay a voluntary tax based on their cargo weight to fund the beacon fires, the venture became short-lived after mariners refused to pay and the builders went bankrupt. The tower came to life again in 1792 when semaphore telegraphy was devised to transmit coded messages using coloured flags. It was also brought into active service during the Second World War. Since 1952 the tower has been Grade II listed and Friends of the Chalk Tower will be welcoming visitors to the ground-floor area. September 10 and 17. Chalk Tower, Lighthouse Road, Flamborough, Bridlington, East Riding of Yorkshire, YO15 1AN
BR ADFORD CITY HALL 150TH ANNIVERSARY
Just to whet your whistle ahead of Bradford 2025 City of Culture, why not celebrate the 150th anniversary of the city’s Grade I listed City Hall? Regular tours across two days will uncover the building’s most prestigious spaces, including the grand st
