7 top heritage openings to try this spring
1. Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery – opening 16 March 2019
Sir John Soane built his dream ‘party house’, Pitzhanger Manor, in Ealing, West London in the early 18th century. Visitors to the newly reopened house can discover how the influential architect entertained his guests and browse his eclectic collection of art. This spring also sees the launch of the revamped Gallery on what was once the site of Soane's kitchen. The inaugural exhibition will showcase the work of Turner Prize-winner Anish Kapoor.
Pitzhanger Manor and GalleryFind out more on the Pitzhanger Manor website.
2. Windermere Jetty: Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories - opening 23 March 2019
Ahoy there! Fancy jumping on a boat to get your heritage fix? Well you can do just that when Windermere Jetty opens its doors on 23 March. As well as experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of life on the lake in the museum’s exhibitions and conservation workshop, you can take a trip on the Lake on Osprey – a fully restored Edwardian steam launch.
Lake WindermereFind out more on the Windermere Jetty website.
3. Painted Hall – Old Royal Naval College – opening 23 March 2019
Gaze up at the newly restored ‘Sistine Chapel of the UK’ in the heart of the Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site. The baroque masterpiece is situated in the Old Royal Naval College, where you can learn about the extensive conservation work that will preserve the painting for years to come.
Painted Hall – Old Royal Naval CollegeFind out more on the Old Royal Naval College website.
4. Hillsborough Castle – opening 18 April 2019
Follow in the footsteps of royalty and presidents on a visit to the restored and re-imagined Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. The royal residence of Northern Ireland is also the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and a springtime stroll in its 100 acres of historic gardens, including the previously unseen Lost Garden.
Hillsborough CastleFind out more on the Hillsborough Castle website.
5. Edinburgh Printmakers – opening spring 2019
Castle Mills was saved from demolition by the community of Fountainbridge, Edinburgh. It has been transformed into a vibrant, creative hub that will serve as an international centre for printmaking and the creative industries. Take part in workshops and get inspired by the works on display in the year-round exhibitions.
And did you know that the site was formerly the headquarters of the North British Rubber Company, now wellie-makers Hunter?
Edinburgh Canal FestivalFind out more on the Edinburgh Printmakers website.
6. Fulham Palace – opening spring 2019
The restoration of the Grade-I listed Palace, which was home of the Bishops of London for over 1,300 years, reaches its completion this spring. Fulham Palace boasts a new and larger museum, a revamped Tudor Quadrangle and restored historic rooms. Plants which were originally grown at the Palace 300 years ago, have been reintroduced to the rejuvenated botanic garden.
Fulham PalaceFind out more on the Fulham Palace website.
7. The Silverstone Experience – opening spring 2019
Delve into the hidden history of the ‘home of British motor racing’ with The Silverstone Experience. It's housed at the entrance to the iconic racing circuit in the only remaining Second World War Wellington Bomber hangar. Take a journey through its 70-year strong history and experience what it’s like to do a lap of the track.
Silverstone in the 1950s Credit BRDCArchiveFind out more on the Silverstone website.