Hastings unlocks its hidden history for Heritage Open Days

More than 20 local venues will be opening their doors for free events during Hastings Heritage Open Days 2026 from September 11 to September 20. Explore stories of Hastings’ rich historic past with free access to heritage venues as local history comes alive as part of England’s largest festival of history and culture. 

From iconic Net Huts to maritime landmarks and even a Norman Castle, Hastings Heritage Open Days will offer a rare free-of-charge look behind usually locked doors, allowing visitors to take part in activities, guided walks and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. 

If you think it’s all about 1066…take a chance to explore a different side of Hastings: 

- Discover an urban Commons with a tour of Gotham Alley

- Listen to audio recordings of Hastings fishermen telling stories of a centuries-old way of life at Hastings Contemporary 

- Take a ride on Happy Harold, Hastings’ own vintage operational trolleybus

- Discover many more events across the festival 

Hastings Heritage Open Days provides a direct opportunity for the community to discover the unique character of this special town famous for its independent spirit, smuggling, adventure, art and culture making local history accessible to everyone completely free of charge.  

All events during Hastings Heritage Open Days are free to attend, though select tours and workshops require advance booking due to limited capacity. Please check the website for varied opening times and availability before planning your visit.

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture; every year, thousands of volunteers and supporters organise events that allow us to discover hidden places and try out new experiences. Brought to you by the National Trust, supported by players of Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers, Heritage Open Days gives everyone free access to experiences and events across England, including access to many sites that usually charge for admission 

Liam Montgomery, Heritage Open Days Marketing & Projects Manager, said, “There are so many brilliant stories that are celebrated through the festival each year, but this year I can’t wait to see all those everyday hidden-in-plain-sight stories centre stage in our programming through the ‘Everyday Histories’ theme. I’m so excited to see our community uncover new stories and delve deeper than ever before”

Please make sure to check the full event schedule for venue listings, and booking details, visit the national Heritage Open Days or the local Hastings Heritage Open Days websites here https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/ and here https://www.smitc-trust.org/heritage-open-days-2026