HISTORIC sites across Nailsworth which are usually off limits will be open to visitors this weekend.

Nailsworth’s first Heritage Open Day is taking place on Saturday, September 14.

Eleven venues, not normally open to the public, will be available to explore.

The event will also include guided walks and tours, children’s activities and music.

One venue, Nailsworth Subscription Rooms, formerly the Boys Club, will be running trips on a vintage bus which was used by the boys at the club for their camping and canoeing trips in the 1960s.

It is hoped that lots of the old boys will come along for a look around the club and a ride on the bus.

Information about all the day's events, plus displays and refreshments will be available in the Mortimer Room.

Deputy mayor Mike Kelly, who is organising the event, said: “We are very excited about our first Heritage Open Day and lots of work has been going on behind the scenes to open up sites of historical and industrial interest to the public.

"There will be entertainment in and around the town and I am sure that there is something for everyone.

"We welcome residents and visitors to explore Nailsworth’s hidden gems.”

The event will run from 9.30am to 4.30pm and information leaflets, with a maps, will be available to guide people around to the different venues.

Heritage Open Days is England's largest festival of history and culture, bringing together over 2,000 organisations, 5,000 events and 40,000 volunteers. Every year in September, places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history.

For more information visit heritageopendays.org.uk