The Heritage Open Days event celebrates England's fantastic architecture and culture by offering access, free of charge, to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden mysteries and treasures, and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture. Literally on people's doorsteps, it is an event for everyone, whatever their background, age and ability.
Co-ordinated nationally by English Heritage the event thrives on the enthusiasm and expertise of local people. Thousands of volunteers from all walks of life share their knowledge and memories with some 850,000 visitors every year, making Heritage Open Days England's largest voluntary cultural event.
The following Masonic venues will be open to the
public at various times during the
Heritage Open Days event (9-12 September
2010).
Click on the venue to see opening times and details via a link to the Heritage Open Days website.
Birmingham - Edgbaston, The Clarendon Suites
A unique opportunity to see for yourself what freemasonry in Warwickshire is all about. Also, see pdf
The Coventry Masonic Hall was built as a private house in 1878 and still retains many of the original features. The building was purchased by the Drapers Guild around 1975 when it became the Drapers Company Club. Around 1988 the building was bought from the Guild by the Coventry Freemasons but is shared by both organisations today. For HODs there will be talks and demonstrations of Freemasonry - details of our extensive charity work and festivals undertaken. Guided tours around the Rooms and Temple with displays of regalia worn by Freemasons.
Masonic meeting rooms with displays of Masonic paraphernalia & explanations of the aims and organisation of freemasonry.
Old property Grade II listed. Until 1934 was the Preparatory High School for Girls. Extended in 1935 and a Masonic Temple built which hosts one of the oldest pipe organs in Warwickshire. Downstairs in the restaurant there is a permanent art exhibition.
Stratford-upon-Avon, Great William Street
The Masonic Hall, formerly a primitive Methodist Chapel consecrated in 1866, is the meeting place for various Masonic Orders who conduct their ceremonies in its upstairs temple. Masonic exhibitions with stewards available to answer questions.
Grade II listed building owned by the Masons, displays available with pictures and facts. Tours available with Masons for further information on the building and Freemasonry.
An opportunity to view a beautiful 18th century listed Georgian building in the centre of Warwick. Fine early 18th century staircase. Now used as Masonic Rooms.
This is a rare opportunity to see the house ruins, caves and 15th century chapel of this unique site with its connections to slavery, the legendary Guy of Warwick and Henry V. Once an oratory, then a country house, a WWI hospital, and a home for evacuated children, this evocative site has captivated visitors through the centuries. This year, an added attraction will be the original 5hp Petter pumping engine from the brew house, built in 1921, now fully restored to working condition and returning to its old home for the first time in many years.