06/09/2026
🏭 Heritage Open Days: The History of Everyday Life
What did a working day actually look like? Who worked in the factories, workshops and businesses that shaped England — and what was life like beyond the workplace?
These questions are at the heart of this year’s Heritage Open Days, taking place across England from 11–20 September 2026. Under the theme “Everyday Histories”, the festival turns the spotlight on the often overlooked stories of ordinary working people — from factory floors and dockyards to kitchens, workshops and high streets.
For industrial heritage enthusiasts, there is plenty to discover:
👩 Industrious Women – Coalport, Shropshire
At two historic ceramic sites in the Ironbridge Gorge, this event explores the working lives of generations of women who were an essential part of the pottery industry. Wages records, archives and family history help bring individual stories out of the past — and back into focus. 11–13 & 18–20 September.
🚂 Irlam Heritage Signal Box Open – Greater Manchester
Step into an 1884 signal box and discover the people and technology behind railway safety. Visitors can hear about its history, operate the original levers and watch today's trains pass by — a small place offering a direct connection between railway heritage and everyday working life. 12 September, 2–4pm.
⚓ Ellesmere Yard Heritage Tour – Shropshire
Explore a historic canal maintenance yard, including its dry dock, forge, lock gate shop and pattern room. The tour also reveals how the site is being restored today — with plans to turn it into a centre for heritage skills and community involvement. 19 September, 10:30am & 2pm.
🔎 And much more ... Together, these events show that industrial heritage is much about people, skills, routines, communities and the everyday lives that made industrial places what they are.
📅 Heritage Open Days 2026
🇬🇧 Across England
🗓️ 11–20 September 2026
🎟️ Thousands of free events and experiences
🏭 Theme: Everyday Histories
👉 Explore the full programme: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/whats-on/search-2026-events.html
