Free heritage events taking place across Solihull this September

Solihull residents will have the chance to explore historic buildings and local landmarks for free this month as Heritage Open Days returns.

The annual festival runs from Friday 11 September to Sunday 20 September 2026, giving people the opportunity to visit historic places and take part in events that are not always available to the public.

There are several options for people living in Solihull and the surrounding area, including a historic church in the town centre and two National Trust properties nearby.

St Alphege Church

St Alphege Church in Solihull town centre is taking part in Heritage Open Days, giving visitors the chance to discover more about one of the town's most recognisable historic buildings.

The church's Heritage Open Day is scheduled for Saturday 19 September from 10am to 4pm.

Visitors can find out more about the church and its history, with the building offering a chance to explore a significant part of Solihull's heritage.

How to take part

Check the St Alphege Parish information before visiting for the latest arrangements and any details about activities taking place on the day.

Free day at Packwood House

One of the biggest nearby opportunities comes at Packwood House, which will open as part of Heritage Open Days on Saturday 12 September.

The National Trust property will be open from 9am to 5pm, with visitors able to enter for free as part of the festival.

No booking is required, meaning residents can simply turn up during the event's opening hours.

Packwood House is a historic Tudor property near Lapworth, with period interiors, collections and its well-known gardens.

How to take part

Visitors do not need to book for the Heritage Open Day. You can book here.

Baddesley Clinton opens its doors

Another option is Baddesley Clinton, which will hold its Heritage Open Day on Sunday 13 September from 9am to 5pm.

The National Trust property is offering free entry for the event and, according to the Heritage Open Days listing, pre-booking is not required.

The moated historic house has around 500 years of history and is one of the area's best-known heritage attractions.

How to take part

There is no need to reserve a ticket for the Heritage Open Day. Visitors can turn up during the advertised opening hours. You can book here.

How Solihull residents can take part

Heritage Open Days features events across England throughout the ten-day festival, with individual listings explaining whether visitors need to book or can simply turn up. The events are free to explore.

For Solihull residents, the key dates include:

• Saturday 12 September – Packwood House, 9am–5pm, free entry and no booking required.

• Sunday 13 September – Baddesley Clinton, 9am–5pm, free entry and no booking required.

• Saturday 19 September – St Alphege Church, 10am–4pm.

Residents can also search the full Heritage Open Days programme for other events taking place across Solihull and the surrounding area.

Search the full Heritage Open Days programme

A chance to discover local history

With ten days of events taking place across the region, Heritage Open Days gives Solihull residents the opportunity to explore historic places without paying the usual admission price.

For those looking for something different to do in September, the festival provides a chance to discover more of the area's history, from the medieval St Alphege Church in the town centre to historic houses and gardens around the borough.