Midlands venues in Heritage Open Days

Some of the Midlands' most treasured landmarks and historical attractions are preparing to open their doors to the public free of charge.

A host of famous places will welcome visitors as part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme.

Across the country attractions ranging from castles to factories will be free to explore.

From September 8 to September 11, a million people are expected to explore more than 4,000 properties of every style, period and function, many of which are normally closed to the public or charge for admission.

Heritage Open Days offers people all over the West Midlands the chance to explore historic, cultural and architectural gems on their doorstep, free of charge.

Many iconic locations in the Black Country and Staffordshire will be open to public with an extensive programme of events run by local organisers ranging from re-enactments of Roman life to battlefield walks.

Among the highlights are a tour of the Banks' Park brewery, where Black Country's ales have been brewed since 1875. Wolverhampton's Beatties will open up its heritage room, as will the city's Bantock House. There will be a guided tour of the Grand Theatre, Tettenhall College, and Molinuex stadium.

Also available will be a behind-the-scenes look at the Dudley Ghost Tour, and the home of lock making family the Hodson's in Willenhall will be open. Tim Johnson, English Heritage's planning director for the West Midlands, said: "Heritage Open Days is a unique event.

"For four days England opens its doors and everyone is free to explore. An army of volunteers welcomes the public to an array of fascinating buildings. It is these volunteers, and the places they celebrate, that are the lifeblood of our country's heritage."

Visit the website www.heritageopendays.org.uk/directory

Attractions taking part in the Heritage Open Days:

• The Mayor’s Parlour, Wolverhampton: Open Saturday and Sunday 10am-noon

• Foundry Tour of Chamberlain and Hill Castings, Walsall: Open Saturday 10am-1pm

• Dudley Ghost Tours: Open: Friday 7.30-9.30pm, Saturday 11am-4.30pm and 7.30-9.30pm, Sunday 11am-4.30pm

• New Smethwick Pumping Station: Open Sunday 1-4pm

• Bishop Asbury Cottage, West Bromwich: Open Sunday 2-5pm

• Shire Hall Gallery, Stafford: Saturday 10am