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Dunstable’s fascinating history will come to life on Saturday 12 September, when residents and visitors are invited to explore the town’s heritage as part of a free Heritage Open Day.
Running from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm, the event will open the doors to nine historic buildings and sites, giving visitors the chance to discover more about the people, buildings and stories that have helped shape Dunstable.
Start your day at Middle Row Markets, where you can collect a free town map showing the participating heritage sites and opening times. The market will also feature local traders selling food, crafts, gifts, and more.
There will be plenty for families to enjoy, including free face painting, arts and crafts, historic crazy golf, the Wheelie Good Trail and a performance from Swing Dance MK.
Across the town centre, visitors can discover something different at each venue. Priory Church will feature history and heritage quiz trails, while Dunstable Windmill will explore the story of Admiral Sir Lionel George Preston and Dunstable’s naval connections.
At Grove House, visitors can explore its Georgian rooms and discover its history as a family home, school and now the civic headquarters of Dunstable Town Council. Chew’s House will showcase its Georgian benefactors, family coats of arms and fascinating history.
Priory House will offer tours of its restored medieval building and 13th-century Undercroft, with free advance booking required. Harper Luxe Serviced Apartments will share the story of the restoration of the former 1839 hat factory.
Visitors can also explore The Square Methodist Church, with displays, a church trail, children’s crafts, refreshments and music on its historic organ, while St Mary’s Church will showcase its distinctive 1960s architecture and history.
And the celebrations continue into the evening with Proms in the Park at Priory Gardens, from 3 pm until 11 pm.
Start the afternoon with a screening of Elvis (12A), followed by performances from Dunstable Town Band and Emily Yarrow. Then settle in for the live broadcast of the Last Night of the Proms on the big screen, complete with special effects to end the night in style.
Bring your picnic chairs, blankets and your Pimm’s and join the celebration of this wonderful British classical tradition. There will also be an on-site licensed bar and food concessions available.
Whether you love local history, enjoy live entertainment or are simply looking for a great day out, Saturday 12 September offers something for everyone in Dunstable.
