Explore Surrey’s Heritage Open Days 2024
Welcome to Ashtead Living’s guide to this year’s Heritage Open Days in Surrey, where history buffs and the mildly curious alike can explore the county’s rich and diverse history. Heritage Open Days are a fantastic opportunity to snoop around some of Surrey’s most intriguing sites, often hidden behind closed doors the rest of the year. Running from the 6th to the 15th September, we’ve highlighted 15 fascinating events for you to check out.
1. Ashtead Rye Meadows Wetlands
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: 1 Fairholme Crescent, Ashtead, Surrey, KT21 2HN
Pre-booking: Not required
Explore the beautiful Rye Meadows, a wetland site enhanced over 12 years to support local wildlife. A perfect stop for nature lovers—and for those who want to impress others with their knowledge of conservation efforts in Surrey.
2. Quaker Meeting House
Date: 14 Sep 2024
Address: The Mint, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1HB
Pre-booking: Not required
Visit this serene site in Godalming to learn about the history of Quakerism in the area. A Quaker will be on hand to explain the history of both the movement and the buildings. Who knew quiet contemplation could be so enlightening?
3. Historic Vehicle Display
Date: 14 Sep 2024
Address: Tunnel Road, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 9AY
Pre-booking: Not required
For those who prefer horsepower to history, this display by the Surrey Vintage Vehicle Society will have you revving your engines. It’s a celebration of classic cars—just don’t expect to take one home.
4. Hone's Yard
Date: 07 Sep 2024
Address: Downing Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PH
Pre-booking: Not required
Take a trip back in time at Hone's Yard, the site of an old farm in Farnham. Perfect for those who appreciate rustic charm and the smell of history—or just the smell of an old farm.
5. St Mark's Church, Godalming
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: Franklyn Road, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 2LD
Pre-booking: Not required
Discover the community ties and creative arts connections of this modest yet fascinating church in Godalming. A small church with a big heart.
6. Maiastra Perform Ravel, Britten & Mozart Quartets
Date: 06 Sep 2024
Address: Riverhouse Barn, Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, KT12 2PF
Pre-booking: Required
For those who appreciate classical music, this event is a must. Enjoy quartets by Ravel, Britten, and Mozart performed by award-winning musicians. Consider it your cultural indulgence for the week.
7. St Martin's Church, Dorking
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: Church Street, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1DW
Pre-booking: Not required
This grand Victorian church celebrates its 150th anniversary by exploring its connections with the creative arts. You might even find inspiration for your next DIY project—if you’re into that kind of thing.
8. Bush Hotel, Farnham
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: The Borough, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7NN
Pre-booking: Not required
Step inside this historic hotel and take a self-guided tour. It’s the perfect place to imagine what life was like before travel websites existed.
9. Effingham Golf Club
Date: 14 Sep 2024
Address: Guildford Road, Effingham, Surrey, KT24 5PZ
Pre-booking: Not required
Discover the history of this Georgian building, now the clubhouse of one of England's top golf courses. It's a hole-in-one for history and golf enthusiasts alike.
10. Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: Down Lane, Guildford, Surrey, GU3 1DQ
Pre-booking: Preferred
Explore the history of this unique Arts & Crafts village, with free entry and guided tours. A perfect blend of art, history, and Instagram-worthy moments.
11. St Nicolas Church, Great Bookham
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: Great Bookham, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT23 3PA
Pre-booking: Not required
Step inside this Grade I listed church dating from the 11th century. If walls could talk, these would probably have a lot to say—though you might need to brush up on your Middle English.
12. St Peter's Church, Hascombe
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: Church Road, Godalming, Surrey, GU8 4JD
Pre-booking: Not required
Join a short talk and guided tour of this picturesque church. The perfect way to feel pious, even if only for an hour.
13. Godalming Minster - St Peter and St Paul's Church
Date: Multiple dates available
Address: Church Street, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 1ES
Pre-booking: Not required
Walk through history at this Grade I listed parish church. A must for anyone who loves stained glass windows and old stone.
14. Chapel Chats at Watts Chapel
Date: 14 Sep 2024
Address: Down Lane, Compton, Guildford, Surrey, GU3 1DQ
Pre-booking: Not required
Explore the stunning Watts Chapel with guides on hand to explain the incredible designs by Mary Watts. It’s art, it’s architecture, it’s a whole lot of “wow.”
15. The Architecture of Castle Street
Date: 11 Sep 2024
Address: Barley Room, Farnham Maltings, Bridge Square, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7QR
Pre-booking: Not required
Attend a talk by Michael Blower MBE on the architecture of Castle Street in Farnham. Ideal for anyone who likes to use the phrase “good bones” when describing old buildings.
Final Thoughts
Heritage Open Days 2024 in Surrey offer a brilliant array of activities that allow you to peek behind the curtains of history—literally. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a casual explorer, or just someone looking for an excuse to avoid house chores, these events have something to offer. Mark your calendars, grab a friend, and enjoy discovering the hidden gems of Surrey. Just don’t blame us if you suddenly feel the urge to restore a Grade II listed building in your spare time.