
This year the Heritage Open Days festival runs between Friday 11th – Sunday 20th September with the theme “Everyday Histories – exploring stories of working lives, from learning a craft to establishing routines and cherished rituals”.
Each year, millions of people take part in a nationwide celebration of their heritage, community and history. The festival is brought to you by the National Trust and supported by Postcode Lottery players, with a programme of events delivered locally by thousands of organisations and volunteers.
Thanet venues and activities
Birchington Heritage Trust
Step inside Birchington’s story this Heritage Open Days season and discover how Jennie
Burgess and Alfred Walker helped create and preserve records of the people, places and memories that shaped the village.
Visit Birchington Museum: 9.30am to 12.30pm on Saturday 12th, Monday 14th, Thursday 17th and Saturday 19th September, where volunteers will be on hand to welcome visitors and share the stories behind the displays.
For a limited time, rarely seen archives and photographs will be brought out to reveal Birchington past and present, from the careful research of Jennie and Alfred to the images that capture how the village has changed.
Come and see Birchington’s heritage brought to life through the records and photographs that keep its story alive.
And if you can’t visit that week, don’t worry. The museum is open every Monday, Thursday and Saturday morning (except bank holidays) so if you want to delve a bit deeper you will be very welcome.
Based within Birchington Library, 17 Alpha Road, Birchington CT7 9EG.
For more information please visit: www.birchingtonheritage.org.uk
The Wonderworks Margate
14th September and 20th September. Open 10am -3.30pm
Experience an interactive adventure where you can get hands on with models and kits, enjoy fascinating displays, and discover the history behind Britain’s best loved toys and hobbies.
Visit Britain’s largest one-stop shop for all of the Hornby Hobbies brands, whether you’re after the latest Scalextric race set, a new locomotive for your model railway layout, or a scale model of a classic Spitfire airplane.
Stop by the cafe for a quick snack, coffee or lunch – serving hot and cold food and drinks, all freshly prepared to order.
FREE entry for Heritage Open Days
Sea Captain’s Garden (146 High Street, Ramsgate)
19th September, 10am – 4pm
The Ramsgate Historic Quarter Heritage Open Day celebrations this year will be at the on the site where Captain Thomas Abbotts grand mansion once stood
The house was later occupied by Lord Conyingham and featured an impressive kitchen garden and orchards.
There will be information about the Historic Quarter and its occupants in its heyday, stories of the sea captains, as well as some walking tours pointing out some of the grand mansions in which they lived.
The event is the launch of the garden in recognition of the value of heritage architecture, green spaces and community spirit all washed down with a barrel of ale, a truckle of cheese with sea biscuits.
Parking nearby at Cannon street car park (free on Saturdays), walk north-east down Paradise, turn left at the High Street and the garden is on your left.
Free (pre-booking not required)
Italianate Glasshouse, King George VI Park, Ramsgate
12th September – 13th September, 10am – 4pm both days
The beautifully restored Glasshouse was erected in the grounds of East Cliff Lodge, Sir Moses Montefiore’s 22 acre estate in 1832. Sir Moses, an important British financier and former Sheriff of London bought the magnificent structure from another impressive house, Bretton Hall in Yorkshire. During the open weekend there will be an exhibition by local artists in the garden and greenhouse – ‘The Garden of Earthly Delights – ceramics, prints and drawings by Bimba Champion, Rupert Willard & Death Row Ceramics.’
On street parking nearby. Access to the glasshouse is via King George VI Memorial Park.
Holy Trinity Church Ramsgate
12th September – 20th September
Saturday 12 all day TBC, Sunday 13 9.30am – TBC, Wed 16 9.30-3.30, Friday 18th 9.30-3.30
Saturday 19th all day TBC. Sunday 20th 9.30am – TBC. Usual church services during the week, check Church website.
The church brings a touch of Ravenna’s Romanesque architecture in flint and brick to the heart of Broadstairs.
Church of England Church for everyone, incorporating a shrine of Mary, stained glass, stations of the cross and a number of art works new and old.
Montefiore Synagogue and Mausoleum Ramsgate
18th September. 11am – 3pm
Visit Ramsgate’s Synagogue, designed by architect David Mocatta, student of Sir John Soane and the first Anglo-Jewish architect, which was opened with a grand public ceremony in 1833. Both the Synagogue and Mausoleum are now Listed Grade II* and the Synagogue has been designated by Jewish Heritage UK as one of the Top Ten in Britain.
Toilets available. No disabled access. On road parking in nearby streets.
Dickens House Museum Broadstairs
Friday 11th & Saturday 12th September and Friday 18th & Saturday 19th September, open 1pm-4.30pm
Dickens House Museum celebrates Charles Dickens’ long connection with Broadstairs (1837-1851).
Dickens House Museum is housed in the cottage that was Charles Dickens’ inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield.
Visitors to the museum will see items that once belonged to Charles Dickens including letters written about Broadstairs, his writing box and mahogany sideboard, along with a fine collection of prints by H K Browne (Phiz), one of Dickens’ principal illustrators, all this plus Dickensian memorabilia, Victorian costumes and Victoriana and more.
The museum is split across two levels.
The museum has a step at the entrance, however there is a ramp available.
The ground floor is accessible for wheelchair users.
Unfortunately the upstairs rooms are not accessible.
Sonic Trail Ramsgate
11th September – 13th September, noon-4pm
The Sonic Trail comprises sound installations specially commissioned by the Ramsgate Festival of Sound and will shine a light on the incredible architecture of Ramsgate using the medium of sound.
Taking inspiration from this year’s theme, ‘Everyday Histories,’ artists will create sound-based work to reflect past lives and local history in and around Ramsgate. As part of Ramsgate Festival of Sound, the Sonic Trail is a chance for people to walk around the town and discover something fascinating about Ramsgate’s rich heritage through the medium of sound.
Eight different locations around town, there may be a timed entry or you may have to wait to enter smaller venues. Full details via the website. Festival kicks off on Thursday 10th September and Sonic Trails will be open to the public Friday 11th – Sunday 13th Sept
Pre-booking may be required for some spaces. For a full list of venues and booking requirements visit www.ramsgatefestival.org
Working people of the Isle of Thanet through time Margate
September 11-13 and 15-20, 10am to 5pm at Thanet Visitor Centre in Margate.
A presentation of historical images of the Isle of Thanet, from the 20th century, at the Thanet Visitor Centre in Margate.
Small exhibition featuring a series of archival photographs from the Sunbeam Collection which was the dominant commercial photographic company along the Isle of Thanet’s coast. This collection was archived by the UK’s South East Archive of Seaside Photography (SEAS Photography) project.
Drawn from the collection, the exhibition will feature some of the Isle’s iconic workers and tradespeople. Spanning both the tourism industry and the wider local economy, it highlights everyone from musicians and publicans to nurses and many more.
Accessible entrance, one level, parking nearby.
The Grange & St Edward’s Presbytery Ramsgate
11th September – 14th September
Grade I listed house designed and lived in by the 19th century architect Augustus Pugin in Ramsgate
10am-4pm (Monday 14th 10am-1pm)
Explore the extraordinary Neo-Gothic family home of Augustus Pugin overlooking the sea in Ramsgate.The Grange was built by Augustus Pugin in 1845 and he produced some of his finest work at The Grange including designs for the House of Lords. St Edward’s Presbytery, built by Augustus Pugin in 1850, is part of this great architect’s original conception for this important Gothic revival site on the West Cliff.
Whilst booking is not essential, visitors are asked to register for the event via Eventbrite, Search ‘Pugin’s Grange’ on eventbrite.
The Grange and St Edwards’ Presbytery both have steep stairs to the above ground floors.
Pierremont Hall Broadstairs
11th September – 17th September, open for general visits between 9am and 1pm.
Built in 1785 as an elegant private country residence, the grand Georgian house has played many roles across its centuries-long lifespan. Notably, it served as a childhood holiday home for Her Majesty Queen Victoria (then Princess Victoria). Today, Pierremont Hall operates as a vibrant community hub and weddings venue managed by the Town Council.
“By opening Pierremont Hall, we are making our shared heritage accessible to everyone,” says Cllr Alan Munns, Councillor for Local History and Heritage. “We want to pass that local pride and connection down to our children, ensuring our town’s past continues to inspire its future.”
While the historical displays run all week, a major highlight of the heritage celebration occurs on Saturday, 12th September, featuring an expanded line-up of indoor and outdoor activities:
- Inside the Hall (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Discover the heritage of the venue and the town through old maps, news clips, local heroes, and archival video clips of Broadstairs. Visitors can also enjoy short, guided venue tours of the grand architecture.
- Outside the Hall (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM): The popular Antiques & Collectibles Fair returns to the grounds. Buyers can browse a vibrant outdoor market of unique treasures, vintage items, and historical trinkets completely free of charge.
- Under-18s Mystery Film Screening (3:00 PM): To make history wildly entertaining for younger generations, the Town Council is hosting an exclusive free film screening for children and teenagers. Blending comedy with educational fun, this activity is perfect for keeping young minds entertained after a morning at the fair.
Admission to the film is free, but spaces are strictly limited and entry is by guestlist only. The council will be posting clues about the mystery film choice on their social media pages. Parents and youth can email [email protected] to secure a spot.
Shrine of St Augustine & The National Pugin Centre Ramsgate
11th September – 20th September
Friday 11th 10am-5pm / Saturday 12th – Sunday 20th 10am-4pm
Education, research, and visitor centre, around two themes: Augustus Pugin and St Augustine in Ramsgate.
Augustus Pugin, the architect behind the Houses of Parliament, began building this Gothic Revival church in 1844. In 2012, it was designated the official Shrine of St Augustine of England, restoring a pilgrimage site lost during the Reformation. Today, it features a National Pugin Centre, complete with an Education, Research, and Visitor Centre.
Talk on 11th September, 5pm, ‘Unbuilt Pugin’ by Dr Peter Lindfield (Architectural Historian, Cardiff University and Pugin Society) exploring the Pugin designs which remain fixed to the page.
Accessibility – Access to St Augustine’s can be challenging because of many steps. Nevertheless it is possible to access many areas with a wheelchair. Toilets are accessed via the East Cloister. Disabled toilets are at ground level.
St John’s Church Margate
Friday 11th, Saturday 12th 10am-5pm, Tuesday 15th, 2pm-4pm, Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th 12pm-4pm
St John’s, Margate, are delighted to welcome visitors to this historic church again this year as part of Heritage Open Days.
Explore the church, learn about opportunities to be involved, relive memories in the wedding exhibition, share your connections with St John’s and join a craft activity – all materials provided.
A special wedding exhibition will bring back memories for local families throughout the Open Heritage Days. Visitors can take part in a “tapestry of memories”. The church’s craft group will demonstrate crochet at various times.
Friday 11th September – church open 10am until 5pm with our pop up cafe – all welcome – donations appreciated..
Saturday 12th September – church open 10am until 5pm. Pop up cafe. 10am to 12 noon – “painting the neighbourhood” with Ann.
2pm to 4pm – “slow stitch memories” with Ruth on a small square of fabric and Ruth will add it into a special artwork to display in the church.
Saturday Kitchen lunch 12 noon.
A special welcome for those on the Kent Sponsored Ride and Stride.
There is a bellringing session in the morning as the Tower Captain and fellow bellringers demonstrate the ring of eight bells.
Sunday 13th September – after the regular morning church service the church is open from 12noon to 4pm.
Other special openings this week also include:
Monday 14th September – 3.30pm to 5.30pm – crafting photo frames with Jill.
Tuesday 15th September – 2.00pm to 5.00pm – crochet for beginners with Ruth – finish off a crochet flower – join our weekly crochet group.
Wednesday 16th September – 3.30pm to 5.30pm – pebble painting with Ann.
Thursday 17th September – 3.30pm to 5.30pm – seaside mobiles with Ann.
Friday 18th September – 3.30pm to 5.30pm – a special “memories” card with Ann.
Saturday 19th September – in the St John’s Community Centre – Pop-up Charity Shop from 10am to 12 noon
Church open from 12 noon to 4pm – refreshments available before and after a 2pm to 3pm organ recital by David Lammler, St John’s organist – hear the organ in all its glory.
Sunday 20th September – 12 noon to 4pm – refreshments available.
Refreshments by donation in our pop up café in the church.
Additional openings Tuesday 15th Sept 2pm to 4pm plus Saturday 19th September and Sunday 20th September from 12 noon to 4pm
Ramsgate Tunnels- Tracks, Trams and Town: Life in Ramsgate
11th September – 20th September, open 9.30am – 4pm
A free exhibition linking transport working lives with everyday home life over a 100 years of Ramsgate Tunnels. How did war influence women’s working lives during WWI? What was life like for Railway workers in the Victorian era? How was family life affected by war in Ramsgate during 1940? Hands-on family activities and trails.
The Ramsgate Tunnel tours are subject to regular pricing and need to be booked separately.
The Walpole Bay Hotel, Museum and Napery Gallery Margate
11th September – 20th September
Tours: Friday 11th – Sunday 20th at 11am, duration approximately 1.5 hours.
The family-run Walpole Bay Hotel, built in 1914 and owned by the Bishop family since 1995, incorporates a fascinating Living Museum. Owner Jane Bishop will give a one-hour talk on the hotel’s history. Enter via the original 1914 marble steps and take the marvellous trellis-gated Otis lift, installed in 1927 and still working perfectly. Following the talk, you are invited to explore the exhibits packed across all five floors on your own. A wonderful recent addition is the vintage Walpole Bay Ship Spotters Club telescope, currently being restored to full working order.
Tea rooms, Veranda and Lounge Bar will be open from 11am until 8pm for the public on Heritage Open Days. The Museum and Napery Gallery will also be open at the same time.
Pre-booking preferred by phone 01843 221703 or email [email protected]
Westgate-on-Sea’s High Street Stories
11th September – 20th September
Discover the rich heritage of Westgate-on-Sea through this unique High Street Stories Trail.
Displayed in the windows of the independent businesses, illustrated posters reveal the stories behind the historic buildings that line the high street, from their architectural significance to the people and enterprises that have shaped the town over the years.
This self-guided trail offers the chance to experience Westgate-on-Sea beyond the beach, uncovering its Victorian origins, seaside traditions and vibrant local community. As you follow the trail, you’ll also discover the independent shops, eateries and artisan businesses that continue to give the town its distinctive character, making it easy to pause, browse, shop or enjoy a bite to eat along the way.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, a shopper or a curious visitor, the High Street Stories Trail is an invitation to explore, discover and support the heart of Westgate-on-Sea – where heritage, independent businesses and contemporary seaside life come together.
Dickens Town Trail Broadstairs
12th September, walks at 1.30pm and 2.45pm for around an hour
A short guided tour of Dickensian Broadstairs to learn about his connections to the town.
15 spaces on each walk, first come, first served. Meet at Nuckell’s Garden, directly in front of Dickens House Museum.
Accessibility details – The walk may be hilly at some points
St George’s Church Ramsgate
12th and 19th September, 10am – 3pm
Grade I Listed late Georgian church built in 1827, an outstanding feature being its octagonal stone lantern which served as a navigational aid for shipping in the Channel.
Guided tours up the lantern tower and down into the crypt. The tower is 141 steps to the top of the church, see views of Ramsgate. Climb unsuitable for under 8s and under 12s must be escorted by an adult.
Donations towards the restoration of the church are gratefully received. Pre-booking is preferred, please book online or email [email protected]
You can also call 07971782477
St John’s Church Walk Margate
12th September. Walk starts at 2pm, meet at St John’s Church
Robin Colyer leads a local history walk on behalf of Margate Civic Society
Walk around the St John’s area of town and a tour of the church.
There is a donation of £6 for the walk, which lasts approximately an hour and a half.
All funds are donated to Margate Civic Society.
For further details, please phone 07878 537448
A guided walk around Westgate-on-Sea
12th September, 10am – 11am & 1.30pm – 2.30pm (pre-booking preferred)
Two different guided walks around Westgate, led by local historian Sally Whitworth, to see buildings and sites of historic importance.
Both walks begin at the Bake House, 21 St. Mildred’s Road (between the Carlton Cinema and Coral).
Tea and coffee will be provided afterwards.
Each walk will take about one hour.
A joint initiative between Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre and Westgate-on-Sea Town Council.
To pre-book email Westgate-on-Sea Town Council at [email protected]
Margate Tree Walk
12th September, 2pm. Meeting point: Cliftonville Library
Join Margate Civic Society member, Andrew Nolan on two walks, focusing on the heritage of Margate’s parks- Dane and Northdown, their history and the living heritage of notable trees, their past, present and future. A maximum of 15 per walk; booking is requested by email to [email protected]
Both walks last approximately 2 hours
Quex House and Gardens, Home of The Powell-Cotton Museum
13th September. Open 11am-4pm
Quex House and Gardens and the Powell-Cotton Museum, at the heart of Quex Park, offer an exciting, fun and interactive day out for all where you can discover history, nature and an extraordinary museum all in one unforgettable visit.
The Powell-Cotton Museum is one of Kent’s most distinctive museums, featuring incredible natural history displays of animals from the African and Asian continents in world-famous dioramas. There are also fascinating displays of world-culture objects as well as local archaeology.
Grade II-listed Quex House, formerly home to the Powell-Cotton family, will be open to visitors on Heritage Open Day. The interior of the house is uniquely decorated with ornamental furniture, art and a beautiful library.
Quex Gardens are set in seven acres and feature sweeping lawns, herbaceous borders, exotic trees, a woodland walk, and a historic walled kitchen garden. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens.
From lifelike animal displays to gentle garden trails, there’s plenty to spark children’s curiosity — and just as much to enjoy at your own pace.
Please book online (via the Powell Cotton Website) to avoid disappointment, as if they become too busy, there may be a wait to enter.
Drapers Windmill Margate
Open Sunday 13th & Sunday 20th September, 12 noon-4pm
Drapers Windmill was built in 1845 by Holmans of Canterbury. Rescued from dereliction in 1965, the Drapers Windmill Trust had restored the mill by 1975.
Subject to weather conditions, volunteers will be running the sweeps and the 104yr old Crossley auxiliary gas engine. Visitors will be guided throughout the mill. Hopefully our own flour will be available and free refreshments are offered at ground level.
A short film about the mill, created by local students, and CCTV, enable less active visitors to see higher up the mill. There is also a small museum containing mill artifacts and archaeological finds from the site.
Admission is free, with donations towards the upkeep of the Windmill gratefully received
Our Lady Star of the Sea Broadstairs
14 & 15 September – 17-19 September. Open Monday – Saturday 11am-3pm (closed Wednesday)
The church will remain open for guests to explore, from the choir loft the pews, for Heritage Open Days.
Roman Catholic Church with a vast and varied history. Designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott om ra friba (the architect of the Anglican Liverpool Cathedral)
The church will remain open for guests to explore.. A leaflet will be available for visitors including information on the parish and history of the building. Photos and information available in the church hall. Please note that this is not a guided tour and does not need to be booked.
Car park on site, please use surrounding roads if this is full.
To get in contact, please email [email protected]
ARK Cliftonville
17th September – 20th September, 11am-3pm
Explore this remarkable historic building and discover an interactive exhibition celebrating Margate’s Jewish heritage. The exhibition showcases a new Jewish Heritage website and archival project, created by local writer and historian Katie Blythe, academic Maria Deimling, and ARK’s Jan Ryan and Nathan Jones.
Whether you’re interested in local history, architecture or the stories that have shaped our community, everyone is welcome to drop in and explore.
No booking required.
Tom Thumb Theatre Cliftonville
18th September – 19th September, 12 noon to 3pm
One of the smallest theatres in the world. Originally built as a Victorian coach house in 1896, it was converted into a tiny theatre in 1984. Join them for a theatre open day- Bar open for tea, coffee, and cocktails. Take a look into the theatre and step backstage to see how the stars get treated.
Palace Cinema Broadstairs
18th September – 19th September, 11pm-2pm
Discover the unique story of the Palace and take a journey through the cinema architecture of Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate, from converted Victorian sheds and halls to grand purpose-built dreamhouses, 1890s to today!
Local Cinema Architecture talk at 1pm both days
The Palace have been a cinema since the mid-1960s, before which was a hall for hire, briefly a store for a collection of armour, and originally a boat store. Until the 1960s Broadstairs had several purpose-built cinemas and other places to see a film and they’re proud today to keep film alive in the town; they offer a cosy 111 velvet seats over balcony and stalls, attracting locals and visitors for the latest films from around the world, plus special events such as silent films with live piano.
The cinema open 3 hours each day for two Heritage Open Days. Visitors can explore the auditorium and foyer independently, with illustrated history panels about the Palace in the auditorium and staff on hand to answer questions.
The Local Cinema Architecture talks (40mins) explore the glamorous Art Deco cinemas of Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate. They are once a day at 2pm – please just drop in, no booking required. The cinema remains open for visitors throughout.
Free worksheets for children – an opportunity to design their own cinema
Ramsgate Royal Heritage Harbour & Town Trail
19th September, guided tour 2pm-4pm
Walk in the footsteps of the Ramsgate craftspeople from the last 300 years who lived and worked in and around the Royal Harbour.
Self-guided Leaflet trail available during Information Centre opening times.
* Start at the Visitor Information Centre in Harbour Parade, with an introduction to Ramsgate’s craft heritage and those who worked in around the town’s Grade II* listed Royal Harbour – the only official Harbour of Refuge in the UK (full tour only available on Saturday 19th September).
* Learn about the skills needed by Ramsgate’s fishing fleet, the lives of the Smack Boy apprentices and the crafts of sailors working on the trading wherries along the quaysides.
* Walk through the town, visit the sites and learn the stories of tailors, dressmakers, drapers and haberdashers from years gone by, stopping at the Haberdashery & Fabric Shop at 13 King Street to admire their famous “Wall of Buttons” (not Thursday or Sunday).
* Explore the oldest part of the town and see the craft exhibition at Maker’s House at 154 High Street (weekends only).
Cinema on Sea Westgate
19th September, Carlton Cinema, 10:30am & 12noon
The popular and entertaining duo Ian and Val Carter-Chapman delve into the colourful history of Westgate’s iconic Carlton Cinema.
A joint initiative between Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre and Westgate-on-Sea Town Council.
Pre-booking preferred. To pre-book for any of these events, please email Westgate-on-Sea Town Council at [email protected] or [email protected]
Westgate in Victorian Times
19th September, Bake House, St Mildreds Road, 10am – 11am & 1.30pm – 2.30pm (pre-booking preferred)
Simone Breugem explores Westgate’s fascinating and formative Victorian history
To pre-book email Westgate-on-Sea Town Council at [email protected]
154 High Street Ramsgate
19th September, 11am-5pm
A Georgian town house with an Edwardian extension and a large garden in Ramsgate is opening to the public for Heritage Open Days.
See the restoration of the main house, including a beautiful staircase, panelling and fireplaces uncovered after hiding for many years. Uncover the secret staircase – behind a wardrobe the owners discovered an intact staircase with traces of 1820s Regency wallpaper.
See the huge basement room, which contains evidence of reinforcement because it was used as an air raid shelter for local people during WWII. There are 14 brick-built dog kennels in the garden, left from when the building was home to Plunketts the vets.
Vale Square Ramsgate
19th September, 11am-4pm
Seaside gardens created by James Eddels, a successful London hosiery merchant In 1839. He aimed to develop ‘ superior housing’ on a plot that would centre on a generous central garden. Find out more about the people who have played a part in the history of these special gardens, in an illustrated exhibition.
Call The Heritage Hotline
11th September – 19th September, Salt House Barbers, Queen St, Ramsgate
Pay a visit to Margate Pride’s Heritage Hotline phone booth in Ramsgate
Barbers opening hours: Tuesday 9 am–5 pm / Wednesday 10 am–6 pm / Thursday 11 am–7 pm / Friday 9 am–5 pm / Saturday 9 am–3 pm
This pop-up community archive explores Thanet’s LGBTQ+ history from the 1960s-2000s through a display of local memorabilia. Visitors are invited to ‘call’ the Heritage Hotline by recording memories of LGBTQ+ life in Thanet- from venues and social groups to activism, friendships and personal experiences.
Open to the public during the barbers’ opening hours and during Alley Bar events between 11 – 20 September. The Heritage Hotline is a Margate Pride Project, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
11 Spencer Square
20th September, 11am-4pm
A chance to visit Vincent Van Gogh’s bedroom in Ramsgate.
The artist Vincent Van Gogh came to Ramsgate as a young man of 23 in 1876, long before he became a working artist. He was an assistant teacher at a small boarding school nearby, and lodged at 11 Spencer Square, with another teacher and some of the older boys. Visit his bedroom as part of this event.
Please note that numbers are limited to six people at any one time because of the size of the house and narrow, steep staircase.
Spencer Square Victorian Party
20th September, 11am to 6pm
Spencer Square is a beautiful Georgian square, maintained by local volunteers. Stand where Wellington’s cavalry practiced for Waterloo. Find Van Gogh’s former home at No.11. Discover links to Spencer Gore, the very first Wimbledon champion in 1877.
The theme this year is Victorian life. Dress Victorian- you may win a prize. Watch/play tennis with free tasters, the Spencer Gore Family Tournament and an exhibition ‘Clash of Champions.’ Enjoy refreshments at Vincent’s café. Donations to Friends of Spencer Square will help the garden effort.

