NEWS & RESEARCH
Winchester Heritage Open Days Festival 2026 Returns with a Celebration of Everyday Histories
From 11 to 20 September 2026, Winchester Heritage Open Days Festival will present a diverse programme of free events across Winchester and Hampshire.
This year’s theme, Everyday Histories, explores the lives, work and experiences of ordinary people through the ages. Visitors can enjoy talks, workshops, guided walks, exhibitions and family activities that uncover the stories behind Hampshire’s communities and historic places.
Now in its eleventh year, the festival attracts thousands of visitors annually and celebrates the county’s rich heritage through a collaborative programme delivered by local organisations, community groups and volunteers.
The Winchester Heritage Open Days Festival returns from 11th to the 20th September this year, bringing together communities, historians, local organisations and artists for a vibrant programme of free talks, workshops, and shared cultural experiences across Winchester and Hampshire.
A valued part of the region’s events calendar, the festival provides opportunities for organisations to open up their doors, share their stories and showcase the heritage that makes their communities unique. It provides an important opportunity for local heritage organisations, businesses and community groups to engage new audiences and encourage visitors to explore the area. Through a diverse and inclusive programme, Winchester Heritage Open Days (WHODs) celebrates participation, collaboration and the rich history that surrounds us.
Brought to you nationally by National Trust, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and coordinated locally by Hampshire History Trust, the festival brings thousands of visitors to Winchester and the surrounding areas. The local programme features hundreds of free events delivered by a wide variety of organisations, community groups and volunteers.
This year’s festival shines a spotlight on the theme “Everyday Histories”, celebrating and exploring daily working life through the ages. Events include live performances, hands-on workshops, guided tours, specialist talks and collaborative projects developed with local partners, offering something for all ages and interests.
Visitors can discover the stories of the people behind Hampshire’s historic places and explore questions such as: What was daily life really like?
Early highlights from the programme include:
What does that lever do? Army Service Corps Tank Drivers in the First World War - a fascinating talk delivered by the Head of Collections at the Royal Logistics Corps Museum.
Everyday Histories: poetry wordshop and sharing session at Pilgrims' Hall - Damian Kelly-Basher and Winchester Poetry Festival invite you to turn ordinary stories into magical poems in the evocative setting of Pilgrims’ Hall.
“The Everyday Histories of Queens" - Dr Ellie Woodacre explores the routines, relationships, and experiences behind royal ceremony and public image in British history.
Hampshire Regiment Re-enactors - Join the Hampshire Regiment Re-enactment Society at the Royal Hampshire Regiment Museum, and learn what life was like for an ordinary Hampshire regiment soldier during the Second World War.
Step through time as you enter the Esser-Miles Studio and watch a communal mosaic in progress, be inspired by the artifacts that can be handled, or have a seat and read a good book on this period with a nice cup of tea.
Explore the history of P&G Wells through the lives of people who owned the business and worked there.
Mesh Kuszyk, Winchester Heritage Open Days Festival Manager, said, “I am so excited to see all the events local organisers are creating to celebrate the every day, and often overlooked, stories of Winchester and Hampshire. This year’s programme shows just how many fascinating stories are waiting to be discovered, and it is shaping up to be a fantastic year.”
Beyond the theme, the 2026 festival will also feature a wide range of places that normally charge for entry, as well as many sites offering something extra specifically for the festival. Visitors can take part in a 2.5 mile guided walking trail with Jane Austen Trails Group, watch a mini-drama on the Swing Riots at The Great Hall, ride on a vintage King Alfred Bus around Winchester, or get hands-on with the Out of The Shadows community initiative.
This year marks the 11th Winchester Heritage Open Days, while the national Heritage Open Days programme has been connecting communities with their heritage since 1994. Last year, more than 200 events were held across Winchester and Hampshire, attracting over 35,000 visitors to heritage sites, cultural attractions and community venues.
There is still time for local organisations, community groups, businesses, and heritage enthusiasts to be part of this year’s festival. Event registration remains open until 13 August, offering an opportunity to showcase local stories, welcome new audiences and contribute to one of the region’s largest celebrations of heritage and culture.
Whether you are passionate about local history or looking for a unique day out, Winchester Heritage Open Days offers an opportunity to discover something new. From historic buildings and hidden collections to creative workshops and community events, the festival invites everyone to explore the people, places and everyday experiences that have shaped Hampshire's past.
Visitors can explore the programme now, with even more events and experiences to be announced over the coming months.
To register an event, sign up for updates, or learn more about Winchester Heritage Open Days 2026, visit winchesterheritageopendays.org.