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.
13. Heritage Open Days
Choral Celebration Concert: September 7. A drop-in event between 2.30 and 5pm featuring local choirs and singing groups including the Fairburn Singers, the Liquorice Singers, Pontefract Choral Society, Ackworth Community Choir and the Featherstone Male Voice Choir. This event will take place at Pontefract Town Hall Photo: Scott Merrylees
14. Heritage Open Days
A History of the Medieval Hermitage of Pontefract Talk: September 11. A talk on the history of Pontefract’s Grade I listed Hermitage and Oratory. It will also include an introduction on how David Wilcox is involved and an update on its current state. This event will take place at Pontefract Library Photo: Scott Merrylees
15. Heritage Open Days
Lives and Times of Eminent Prisoners at Pontefract Castle Talk: September 8, pre-booking required, ages 16 and over. A history talk on the stories of Pontefract Castle prisoners over the centuries Photo: Catherine Gannon
16. Heritage Open Days
St Giles, Church of England Tour: September 7. A general guided tour of the church, covering the history of the stained glass windows and the ancient font. Also a chance to visit St Oswald's chapel, within the church, which displays the Pontefract Roll of Honour and the flag of the Burma Association. There is also the chance to visit the rarely open to the public bell ringing chamber, where bell ringers will be able to talk about the ancient art of bell ringing Photo: JOHN CLIFTON