How to see 145 attractions in Devon for FREE this month
From 12–21 September 2025, Devon takes part in Heritage Open Days, England’s largest annual festival of history and culture.
Each September, historic houses, churches, gardens, castles, museums and archives across the country open their doors for free.
Many of these places are usually closed to the public or charge admission, so this is a rare opportunity to step inside.
Devon has one of the biggest programmes in the country, with more than 145 in-person events.
Here’s the full list, divided by region (you can click on the menu to skip straight to the region that interests you most!).
I’ve omitted those that are already fully booked – to avoid disappointment, I would recommend reserving your spot on any that catch your eye ASAP.
Exeter & East Devon
Killerton House, Garden and Park
The National Trust’s Killerton estate opens free, including its Georgian mansion, landscaped gardens, and historic parkland. Displays also cover its unique fashion collection.
Exhibition: The Aclands of Killerton in the 1920s
Devon History Society hosts an exhibition about Eleanor and Frances Acland and their public service roles during the 1920s.
Clyston Mill, Exeter
Step inside this working watermill, part of the Killerton estate. Volunteers explain how water power transformed Victorian industry.
Columbjohn Chapel and Gatehouse Arch, Rewe
Discover the remains of a Tudor mansion, 17th-century archway, and chapel. Excavations here featured on Digging for Britain.
Exeter Library’s Special Collection
“White Glove” sessions give rare access to books dating back to 1480. Pre-booking essential.
St Nicholas Priory – Restoration of the Refectory
A talk and exhibition explain the Tudor refectory’s history, decline, and 1990s restoration.
St Nicholas Priory – Restoration of the Priory
Guided tours highlight the changes to this former monastery across the centuries.
St Sidwell’s Centre, Exeter
Learn about Exeter’s patron saint and the story of Sidwell Street at this community hub.
St Anne’s Chapel, Exeter
This medieval chapel has been an Orthodox church since 1980. On 20 September, it opens to the public beyond services.
South Street Baptist Church, Exeter
Marking 300 years since Baptists first worshipped here, the church hosts an exhibition, displays of worship banners, and refreshments.
St Thomas Church, Exeter
A Grade I-listed church rebuilt in 1657 after the Prayer Book Rebellion. Open for tours and displays on 20 September.
St Clements Church, Powderham
Consecrated in 1259, this historic church is the Courtenay family chapel. Events include talks, music, and cream teas.
St Michael and All Angels, Mount Dinham, Exeter
Based on King Solomon’s Temple, this 19th-century church is known for its architecture, acoustics, and peregrine falcons.
St Martin’s Church, Exeter
On Cathedral Close, this 11th-century church tells the story of its medieval parish.
‘Graveyard Shift’ Walk, Exeter
An artist-led walk departs from St Martin’s on 15 September, exploring graveyards and heritage.
Exeter Cathedral Archives
On 17 September, the Bishop’s Palace hosts a special session with medieval and modern architectural records.
Tuckers Hall, Exeter
Founded in 1471, this guildhall tells the story of Exeter’s wool trade, with guided tours and interactive exhibits.
The Devon & Exeter Institution, Exeter
Founded in 1813, this historic library hosts tours, displays, and performances.
Architecture in the Archives, Exeter
On 20 September, rare documents and architectural records are displayed at the Old Library.
From Silent to Sound – Lecture by Geoff Brown, Exeter
On 18 September, this illustrated talk at the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum explores the arrival of sound in Britain.
Lightbear Lane, Multifaith Centre, Exeter
On 18 September, tour Exeter University’s Passivhaus-standard multifaith centre, promoting inclusivity and sustainability.
Writers Around Exeter – Red Coat Tour
On 16 September, discover the city’s literary connections on this guided tour.
Exeter Herstories – Boudicca to the Georgians
On 13 September, this Red Coat Tour traces the often-overlooked achievements of Exeter’s women.
Exeter Herstories – Victorians and Onwards
A continuation of the women’s history walking tour, running on 18 September.
Exeter Blitz – Red Coat Tour
Learn how WWII bombing shaped the city on a guided walk.
St Sidwell’s Heritage Walk, Exeter
On 14 September, explore the Sidwell Street area and its “lost treasures”.
Quay Words Heritage Walk, Exeter
On 17 September, walk Exeter’s historic quayside with JoJo Spinks, focusing on working-class heritage.
Quayside Consequences Workshop, Exeter
On 14 September, Art Work Exeter hosts a creative drop-in workshop at the Custom House.
Tales of the Land and Songs of the Sea, Exeter
On 20 September, Exeter’s Red Coat Guides share maritime stories.
Bits & Bridges Walk, Exeter
On 21 September, a quirky guided tour explores the history of Exeter’s bridges.
Building & Rebuilding the Body Exhibition, Exeter
An exhibition at 17 St David’s Hill explores how anatomical study has evolved, from post-mortems to modern imaging.
Exeter Community Centre & St David’s Walk
Tour an 18th-century merchant’s house turned community centre, followed by a historic walk of St David’s.
Old St Leonard’s Hall, Exeter
On 20 September, this Victorian Sunday school opens for tours. Linked to the nearby Dissenters’ Graveyard.
Exeter Dissenters’ Graveyard
Also on 20 September, displays and activities explain the history of Nonconformist worship in Exeter.
Police Archive Unlocked, Exeter
On 17 September, see records and artefacts from the history of policing in Devon & Cornwall.
Click here to book any of these.
Mid Devon
Knightshayes, Tiverton
The National Trust’s Knightshayes opens for free during Heritage Open Days. This Victorian Gothic Revival mansion was designed by architect William Burges and is set in formal gardens and parkland. Exhibitions explain how its architecture was inspired by both history and the natural world.
Old Blundell’s, Tiverton
On 20 September, explore this Elizabethan building, once a school. The National Trust shares the site’s literary links and outlines future plans for preserving the building.
John Greenway Chapel and Almshouses, Tiverton
On 18 September, the Grade II-listed John Greenway Chapel and Close opens its doors. Visitors can explore the chapel and almshouses founded by merchant John Greenway in the 16th century, with refreshments available.
John Waldron Chapel, Tiverton
Built in the 1500s, this small Tudor chapel in the centre of Tiverton opens on 12 September. Volunteers provide insight into its history and role in the town.
St Peter’s Church and Tower, Tiverton
On 13 September, this parish church hosts tours of the bell tower and clock. Visitors can see demonstrations, learn about bell-ringing, and enjoy views over the town from the roof.
Bampton Heritage Centre: A Tapestry of Buildings
An exhibition and tours explore Bampton’s architecture, with stories about its historic buildings and churches. The event highlights how the townscape has evolved over centuries.
Bampton Open Tower
On 21 September, climb into the bell tower of St Michael and All Angels in Bampton. Displays and demonstrations explain how the bells are rung, and visitors are invited to try ringing for themselves.
West Ogwell Open Afternoon
On 19 September, West Ogwell Church opens for an afternoon of history, mindfulness, and relaxation. This one-off event includes talks, quiet reflection, and refreshments.
Grantlands Estate, Uffculme
On 21 September, explore this Grade II-listed 19th-century estate. The unchanged buildings of Grantlands provide a snapshot of Victorian architecture in the heart of the village.
Spiceland Quaker Meeting House, Uffculme
On 21 September, Spiceland’s 200-year-old meeting house and burial ground open to visitors. Learn about Quaker traditions past and present at this atmospheric site.
River Culm Heritage Walk, Culmstock
On 18 September, local experts lead a guided evening walk along the River Culm. The tour explores heritage, wildlife, and the story of native crayfish.
Dunkeswell Abbey
On 13 September, join a guided tour of the remains of this Cistercian monastery, founded in 1201. Visitors learn about its medieval history and the archaeology of the site.
All Saints Church, Eggesford
On 14 September, Eggesford’s historic estate church opens with cream teas and a local history exhibition. The church contains fine monuments linked to the Earls of Portsmouth.
St Mary’s Church, Hemyock
On 14 September, St Mary’s opens for displays on its architecture and the wider history of the Blackdown Hills. Exhibitions trace the area’s past across the centuries.
Hemyock Castle
On 14 September, explore the rare surviving ruins of this medieval moated castle. Grounds and interpretation displays explain its history, alongside self-guided tours of the manor and farm buildings.
Calves, Churns and Communities, Hemyock
On 20 September, Hemyock hosts a family-friendly afternoon event. Cream teas, children’s activities, and heritage displays explore the area’s farming traditions.
Pots and Clay Pipes Workshop, Stockland
On 17 September, archaeologist Dr Naomi Payne leads a hands-on session. Learn how to identify pottery fragments and clay pipes commonly found in Devon fields.
Lumps and Bumps: Spotting Archaeology, Wolford Chapel
On 16 September, archaeologist Cressida Whitton leads a talk and guided walk around Wolford Chapel. Participants learn how to recognise archaeological features in the landscape.
Draw Together in the Wild Art Garden, Honiton
On 13 September, artist Karen Howse runs a family workshop in Honiton. Using charcoal, visitors create artworks inspired by the natural and cultural heritage of the Blackdown Hills.
Click here to book any of these.
North Devon
Arlington Court, Barnstaple
The Regency mansion of Arlington Court opens free for Heritage Open Days. Visitors can tour the house, gardens, and the National Trust’s collection of historic carriages, one of the most important in the UK.
St James Church, Swimbridge
On 13 September, this Grade I-listed church welcomes visitors for guided tours. See its medieval woodwork, restored pulpit, and a video tour of the bell tower, with the chance to try ringing the bells yourself.
Ilfracombe: Building Ilfracombe
On 20 September, a special event explores the Victorian architecture of Ilfracombe. Archive materials and displays showcase the town’s transformation during its 19th-century Golden Age as a seaside resort.
Torrington Museum: Dig the Castle
The story of Great Torrington’s Norman castle is brought to life with a community archaeology exhibition. Finds from recent digs reveal new insights into the once-imposing stronghold, now reduced to earthworks.
Guided Tour: Tarka Valley Railway, Torrington
On 13 September, join a guided walk around Torrington Station. The event explores rail and road heritage, with memorabilia on display from the town’s transport past.
Bideford Railway Heritage Centre
On 13 September, the heritage centre at Bideford Station opens for talks in the signal box, exhibitions in a guards van, and cab rides in historic locomotives. Donations are encouraged to cover fuel costs.
Lifeboat Jane Hannah MacDonald, Bideford
On 15 September, an open day showcases the restoration of the historic lifeboat Jane Hannah MacDonald III. Visitors can view the renovation work at the Clovelly Industrial Estate.
Visit Bideford Amateur Rowing Club
On 16 September, step inside the rowing club on Bideford Quay. Displays explain the building’s history and how the club continues to compete locally and nationally.
MOLA Coasts in Mind, Bideford
On 16 September, the Museum of London Archaeology hosts a drop-in event in Bideford. Locals are invited to share memories of changes to the town’s quays and wharves.
Rosie and Red Leather, Bideford
This workshop space showcases traditional heritage crafts. Visitors can see leatherworking, parchment making, and heritage illustration, all once vital for shipbuilding and maritime trade.
Elisabeth Deneys Memorial, Bideford
On 13 September, a memorial plaque is unveiled at Bideford Railway Heritage Centre by the town’s mayor, commemorating Elisabeth Deneys.
Bideford Bridge Trust Offices
On 16 September, the trust offices open for visitors. Displays include historic maps, architectural drawings, and documents related to Bideford’s medieval bridge and charitable trust.
Exhibition: Transformed by War, Bideford
An exhibition at The Pocket tells the story of Bideford and the Torridge ports during WWII. It highlights their role in logistics and the wider UK Heritage Harbours network.
Talk: Transformed by War, Bideford
On 16 September, a special talk expands on the exhibition’s themes. Speakers explain how Bideford’s port and people were affected by the war effort.
Burton at Bideford: Mini Exhibition of Ceramics
The Burton Art Gallery & Museum hosts a small exhibition of ceramics not normally on display. These rare items highlight the town’s artistic and maritime trade connections.
Talk: Ceramics and Trade, Bideford
On 14 September, an illustrated talk explores Bideford’s role in international maritime trade. The focus is on the town’s historic ceramic industry and its global connections.
Guided Walk: Westward Ho!
On 13 September, join a guided tour of Westward Ho! starting at Holy Trinity Church. The walk looks at the early development of the resort and its surviving historic buildings.
Guided Walk: East the Water, Bideford
On 13 September, this walk focuses on the industrial history of Bideford’s East the Water area. Guides explain how the district developed around maritime and industrial trade.
Royal Hotel, Bideford
On 13 September, visit the Grade I-listed Royal Hotel. The ornate plasterwork ceiling of the Kingsley Room, dating from the 17th century, is a highlight of the open day.
17th-Century Wall Plaque, Bideford
Also on 13 September, view a rare wall plaque linked to the Grenville family at 8A The Quay. The plaque provides a glimpse into the town’s early modern history.
Steamship Freshspring, Bideford
On 14 September, step aboard this preserved steamship moored on the River Torridge. Freshspring was once part of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, carrying fresh water to steam-powered naval vessels.
Click here to book any of these.
South Devon
Coleton Fishacre, Dartmouth
This 1920s Arts and Crafts house, with its Art Deco interiors, opens for free during Heritage Open Days. Once the home of the D’Oyly Carte family, it sits in a subtropical garden overlooking the coast and celebrates its centenary in 2025.
Greenway, Brixham
The holiday home of Agatha Christie opens on multiple dates by pre-booking. Visitors can explore the riverside house filled with her collections, from archaeology to literature, and wander through the woodland gardens above the River Dart.
Buckfast Abbey, Buckfast
A working Benedictine monastery, Buckfast Abbey offers free guided tours. Learn about its medieval foundations, 20th-century reconstruction, and the monks’ role in creating a thriving modern abbey with landscaped gardens.
Kirkham House, Paignton
Open on 21 September, this late-medieval town house is a rare survivor in Paignton. Stewards from the local heritage society share the story of its architecture and the families who once lived there.
The Dream Church, Newton Abbot
On 13 September, St Luke’s Church at Milber welcomes visitors. Built in 1931 after Reverend William Keble Martin’s dream vision, it is an unusual church combining spiritual inspiration with striking 20th-century design.
Dartington Gardens, Totnes
Dartington’s 26 acres of listed gardens feature ancient trees, sculptures, and architectural follies. Guided tours also explore how the Elmhirsts transformed Dartington into a hub for the arts and social change in the 20th century.
Dartington Buildings and Elmhirst Heritage Centre Tour
On 18 September, a separate guided event looks in detail at the historic buildings on the Dartington estate. Learn about the Champernowne family’s legacy and the Elmhirsts’ role in shaping Dartington’s modern identity.
St Michael’s Church, Blackawton
On 20 September, Blackawton’s parish church opens with teas and homemade cakes. Visitors can learn about its role in WWII’s Operation Tiger, and see features like the Tudor rood screen and Norman font.
House 450 at Totnes Museum
Totnes Museum, housed in a 16th-century merchant’s house, marks its 450th anniversary with exhibitions on the building’s many uses. Since 1961 it has been the town museum, preserving local history.
Torre Abbey Behind the Scenes, Torquay
On 13 September, Torre Abbey opens hidden parts of its 800-year-old site. Visitors can step inside the Lower Gatehouse Room, wood stores, and the chapel under restoration, normally closed to the public.
Go Wild at Churston Library, Paignton
On 20 September, Churston Library hosts a heritage event with artefacts found by local metal detectorists. The new history area is showcased, alongside fundraising activities by the Friends of Churston Library.
Teignmouth in the 1920s, Teignmouth
On 20 September, Teign Heritage Centre’s exhibition explores how Teignmouth and Shaldon transformed from fishing villages to fashionable resorts. The 1920s theme shows how the area’s social and cultural life evolved.
Whiteway House, Chudleigh
This historic country house opens on selected dates for tours. Guides explain the story of the estate and its links to Devon’s landed gentry.
Click here to book any of these.
Dartmoor
Lydford Gorge, Okehampton
Explore England’s deepest river gorge, carved into the western edge of Dartmoor. Walkways lead to the 30-metre-high Whitelady Waterfall and the swirling Devil’s Cauldron pothole, with staff on hand to share the site’s natural history.
A Guided Tour of Lydford Castle and Saxon Town
On 19 September, English Heritage’s curator leads an exclusive tour of Lydford Castle and the surrounding Saxon town earthworks. Learn about its role as a medieval prison and centre of local justice.
Okehampton Castle
On 13 September, join English Heritage historians for a guided tour of this medieval stronghold, once the holiday retreat of the Earls of Devon. The ruins stand in a wooded valley on the edge of town.
Finch Foundry, Sticklepath
On 20 September, the National Trust opens Finch Foundry, where water-powered hammers once produced 400 tools a day. Guided tours show the huge machinery in motion and explain Dartmoor’s industrial past.
Providence Chapel, Throwleigh
On 13 September, the 19th-century Providence Chapel opens with an exhibition of Dartmoor photographs by Chris Chapman. Visitors are welcomed with home-made teas in this award-winning heritage site.
Hurdwick Quarry, Tavistock
On 21 September, join a curator-led tour of this hidden industrial site. The quarry supplied granite for local buildings and offers a glimpse into Dartmoor’s working landscape.
Tavistock Museum
Hands-on history activities are available for children, with displays telling the story of Tavistock’s heritage. The museum is open on multiple dates during the festival.
Tavistock Subscription Library
Located at Court Gate, this historic library offers a rare chance to browse its collection of books from the 17th to 21st centuries. Volunteers explain its history and how to use the online catalogue.
Tavistock Catholic Church
Our Lady of the Assumption and St Mary Magdalene, built by the Duke of Bedford in the 19th century, opens for tours. The church was designed for miners who settled in Tavistock during the mining boom.
St Eustachius Parish Church, Tavistock
Guided tours explain 700 years of history at Tavistock’s parish church. Highlights include medieval features, historic artefacts, and the chance to explore the building at your own pace.
Echoes of St Eustachius
On 21 September, a musical celebration takes place inside St Eustachius. The event showcases the church’s organ, inaugurated by SS Wesley, alongside its long musical heritage.
Tavistock Guildhall Complex
Several Heritage Open Days events take place here:
- Discover Tavistock’s Secrets in Stone (13 Sept): a guided walk through the town’s architecture.
- From Abbey School to Tavistock College (20 Sept): a walking tour exploring students’ stories across the centuries.
- Living in the Abbey Workshop (20 Sept): a creative session for children inside the old courtroom.
- Ruins & Romance Talk (12 Sept): Dr Geri Parlby discusses artists’ visions of Tavistock Abbey.
- Tavistock Players Live (20 Sept): performances bringing the town’s medieval past to life.
- 19th-Century Gothic Tour (18 Sept): a guided look at the Guildhall’s architecture.
- ‘Ruins and Monuments’ Exhibition: ongoing displays combining photography and artwork.
Bedford Cottages and Tavistock Canal Exhibition
Held at Tavistock Library, this exhibition highlights the influence of John Taylor and the Duke of Bedford on Tavistock’s 19th-century housing and canal system.
Mount Kelly School, Tavistock
Senior pupils lead tours of this independent school with its links to Tavistock’s Victorian mining expansion.
Tavistock Vicarage Garden
On 19 September, a special event explores the early Christian memorial stones displayed in the vicarage garden. The stones date back to the 6th century.
Tavistock Library: Tracing Family History
On 13 September, Tavistock Library hosts sessions on how to begin researching your family tree, with advice from local experts.
Tavistock Beekeepers
On 20 September, as part of a family fun day at the Guildhall, the Tavistock Beekeepers share demonstrations on honey production and hive life.
Click here to book any of these.
Plymouth & West Devon
Saltram House, Plymouth
The National Trust opens Saltram free during Heritage Open Days. Inside are fine Georgian interiors, a rich collection of paintings, and stories of the Parker family who once lived here. The gardens and riverside parkland are also included.
Plymouth Naval Memorial
Guided tours by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission explain the history of this memorial on the Hoe. Built to honour sailors lost in both World Wars, it lists more than 23,000 names.
Stoke Damerel Parish Church, Devonport
On 13 September, the mother church of Devonport opens with displays and information sheets. The church contains 350 years of memorials, including to notable local figures.
Plymouth Proprietary Library: E.F. ‘Pen’ Penrose Talk
On 20 September, this illustrated talk tells the story of Pen Penrose — an academic, diplomat, and writer — whose career connected him to key moments of the 20th century.
Plymouth Proprietary Library: The Doreen Mole Archive
Browse the Doreen Mole collection of research papers, photographs, and maps about Plymouth’s history. Her work forms a unique record of the city, now stored at the library.
Buckland Abbey, Yelverton
Explore 700 years of history at Buckland Abbey. Founded as a Cistercian monastery, it later became the home of Sir Richard Grenville and Sir Francis Drake. Free entry includes the house, gardens, and woodland trails.
