The Heritage Open Days take place each year and see thousands of volunteers across the country organise events at places of cultural and historical significance for people to explore for free.
Pontefract is no exception and has its fair share of fascinating historical buildings, societies and stories.
Upcoming events include a free concert at Pontefract Town Hall performed by Pontefract Choral Society; a guided tour of Pontefract Racecourse where visitors can explore the weighing room and the judges, commentator and photo finish facilities; and a special installation unveiling at Friarwood Valley Gardens.
Elsewhere, St Giles’ Church is offering the public the rare chance to view the bell ringing chamber, and visitors to the Parish Church of All Saints South Kirkby can even have a go at bell ringing themselves.
Pontefract Civic Society has organised a number of events, including a guided walk focusing on the yards to the west of Beastfair/Cornmarket in the late Victorian period, a walk around the town centre to learn about late 19th century traders, and an art exhibition showcasing the work of local artist Adrian Hill, who featured on Sky Portrait Artist of the Year.
Click through our gallery to see some of the events, or go to the Heritage Open Days website for more information and the full programme.
9. Heritage Open Days
The Normanton, Castleford and Pontefract Tramway Talk: September 6, pre-booking required. A talk dealing with the history of this isolated tramway system that came into existence at the close of the 19th Century and opened in 1906, delivered by local historian Peter Cookson. This talk will take place in Pontefract Town Hall Photo: Scott Merrylees
10. Heritage Open Days
Pontefract's Liquorice Story Talk: September 10 and 14. This talk was first delivered for Liquorice Shoots and the Liquorice Festival 2024, and is being reprised for Heritage Open Days. It lasts for around one hour and will take place in Pontefract Library Photo: Scott Merrylees
11. Heritage Open Days
Pontefract Racecourse Talk: September 11, pre-booking required. A talk on the history and development of the sport of horse racing and Pontefract Racecourse in particular, with a guided tour of the buildings, given by Norman Gundill MBE. The talk will be followed by a guided tour, including the stands, enclosures, Weighing Room and the Judges, Commentator and Photo Finish facilities Photo: James Hardisty
12. Heritage Open Days
Pontefract Castle Explorer Tour: September 14 and 15, pre-booking required. A free tour of the castle where visitors can learn about the historic site Photo: Catherine Gannon