Heritage Open Days Cornwall 2026

Cornwall’s fascinating history takes centre stage this September as Heritage Open Days returns from 11–20 September 2026.

Across the county, historic houses, gardens, castles, mines, ancient settlements and normally inaccessible buildings will open their doors for free. Some events simply allow you to turn up, while guided tours and special-access experiences may require advance booking.

Free Heritage Events Across Cornwall

Heritage Open Days offers a brilliant opportunity to discover somewhere new or revisit a favourite attraction without the usual admission charge.

Among the highlights for 2026 are Godolphin House and Garden, Cotehele, Trerice, Antony House, Trengwainton Garden and Glendurgan Garden.

Several National Trust properties are offering free admission on selected dates, making September a great time to explore some of Cornwall’s finest historic houses and gardens.

Castle lovers can discover centuries of Cornish history at Restormel Castle, Launceston Castle and St Mawes Castle.

Special guided events include tales of lavish castle feasts, prisoners and soldiers, historic weaponry and the transformation of Restormel from royal residence to romantic ruin.

Meanwhile, Cotehele is hosting special architectural tours alongside its free Heritage Open Days admission.

Step much further back in time at Carn Euny Ancient Village, Halliggye Fogou and Chysauster Ancient Village, where guided events explore Cornwall’s Iron Age and Romano-British past.

Cornwall’s world-famous mining heritage is also represented at Levant Mine and Beam Engine, with free tours and walks exploring the dramatic Tin Coast and its industrial landscape.

Military history enthusiasts can discover Bodmin’s military past, explore historic defences at Maker Heights, or learn about women’s lives during the Second World War at Pendennis Castle.

There are plenty of more unusual experiences too.

In St Ives, visitors can step inside St Leonard’s Chapel, the historic Huer’s Hut and the Blockhouse on 16 September.

Liskeard Unlocked brings together a packed programme of walks, talks, exhibitions and normally hidden buildings throughout the town.

Elsewhere, you can discover the beginnings of wireless communication at Lizard Wireless Station, go behind the scenes at Kresen Kernow, explore the former home of Cornish poet Charles Causley, or even tour one of Cornwall’s recycling facilities.

Families may also enjoy the trains and exhibits at Moseley Heritage Museum, while Discover St Breward offers the chance to uncover more than 30 places of interest around the Bodmin Moor village.

Heritage Open Days 2026 runs from Friday 11 to Sunday 20 September.

Many events are completely free with no booking required. However, guided walks, tours and special-access events can have limited spaces, so advance booking is essential for some activities.

Always check the individual event listing before travelling for the latest dates, times, booking arrangements and accessibility information.

With castles, country houses, gardens, ancient villages, mines and hidden historic buildings to discover, Heritage Open Days Cornwall 2026 offers a fantastic opportunity to uncover more of Cornwall’s extraordinary story – for free.

Full details of all of the Open Days can be found on the English Heritage website.