Running until Sunday 20th September, Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, with thousands of free events taking place across the country. Every September, thousands of volunteers and organisations open historical places, share local stories and invite people to see familiar places in a whole new way – and it’s all free!
This year’s theme is Everyday Stories, encouraging us to look beyond the grant buildings and famous names and discover the people, places and everyday stories that have shaped our communities. There are several events happening right here in Chippenham, from discovering a long-forgotten canal wharf and exploring historic archives, to stepping back into the days of the Gaumont Cinema and Golddiggers nightclub.
Wednesday 16th September
See Chippenham through the eyes of archaeologists
Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre is hosting a free guided Heritage Walk Around Chippenham from 2-3.30pm. Led by Melanie Pomeroy-Kellinger, County Archaelogist and Dorothy Treasure, Principal Buildings Historian with Wiltshire Buildings Record, the walk explores Chippenham’s archaeology and historic buildings.
Places are free but must be booked in advance by emailing archaelogy@wiltshire.gov.uk
Explore the extraordinary everyday
Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre is also opening up opportunities to discover more about the stories held within its walls as part of The Extraordinary Everyday. Visitors can meet experts from the Wiltshire Family History Society, explore the work of the Archaelogy Historic Environment Record and Stonehenge & Avebury World Heritage Site teams, and find out more about researching family history.
Then on Thursday 17th September, there’s a chance to go behind the scenes at the History Centre, including the archive strongrooms and conservation labs that aren’t normally open to the public alongside a display of some of its archival treasures. Booking required. Max 12 people per tour. Email archives@wiltshire.gov.uk
Discover 25 years on the High Street
Head to Chippenham Museum between 10.30am and 3.30pm to discover the fascinating history of 9-10 Market Place, the home of our brilliant museum for the past 25 years.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the museum’s official opening in its current location, their Young Curators Group have uncovered the extraordinary story of the site, from the Jurassic period to the present day. Bring this history to life through free creative activities and a special opportunity to view ‘A Chip Through Time’, an animation created by our Young Curators Group. It’s free and you can simply drop in.
Step inside the historic Yelde Hall
From 10.30am to 3.30pm, the historic Yelde Hall will be at the heart of the Chippenham -Our History Community Event. Head to the historic Yelde Hall to see the results of a year-long community history project, featuring work by local schools, writers, artists and community groups. Highlights include performances, exhibitions and creative interpretations of Chippenham’s past.
This marks the completion of the year-long community project, bringing together work created by local schools, young people and community groups. Expect stories, creative work, models, performances and plenty of opportunities to discover more about the people and places that have helped shape Chippenham.
Explore Timber Street through time
The history continues along Timber Street, with local history talks exploring the History of Timber Street and Chippenham Canal Wharf, taking place at Chippenham Library.
At 12pm Jack Konynenburg will present Wooden Heart: the Contribution of Timber Street to Chippenham’s Architectural History. At 2.30pm local historian, Ray Alder, will tell the story of Chippenham Canal Wharf – its Success and Decline, exploring the development of the wharf and the trades in Timber Street that relied upon it. Tickets are free but booking recommended. To book, contact Chippenham Library on 01249 650536.
On the same day Chippenham Community Hub will be turning the clock forward for Gaumont to Golddiggers and even a ‘Bit on the Side’! Drop in from 11am and take a nostalgic trip through the era of evening entertainment in Timber Street. Enjoy music and a disco from 1-3pm with classics like Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, Level 42, The Style Council and more.
Inside the ‘Gaumont room’ timed showings will bring back memories of the Gaumont Cinema and Golddiggers nightclub, complete with an usherette selling popcorn. There’s even a nostalgic mocktail inspired by the much-loved ‘Bit on the Side’. No booking required – drop in and enjoy a trip down memory lane.
And if you fancy seeing something a little different, there are also limited tours of 2 & 3 Victoria Place – a distinctive modern home with a sculptural form and unusual views. Tours last around 25 minutes, with booking required. A great opportunity to see inside this modernist house and annex, within Chippenham’s Heritage Quarter and the Town Centre Conservation Area.
Find out more
So, if you’re looking for a free day out this weekend – why not come into town, explore a little, learn something new and support the amazing people and organisations who help keep Chippenham’s stories alive!
There are 12 Heritage Open Days events listed in and near Chippenham. Some events do require pre-booking, so check the details before you set off.
