Heritage open days

This year and for the first time, the Manor House in Godalming is taking part in Heritage Open Days and opening its doors to anybody who would like to look around this magnificent conference centre and hotel.

Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year on four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors, ranging from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns, parish churches to Buddhist temples. It is a once-a-year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.

"This is a brilliant opportunity for the local community to discover what's on their doorstep" says Centre Manager Howard Canning. "The Manor House has been here since the late nineteenth century, but we're amazed by the number of people who have lived in the area all their life who tell us they are completely unaware of its existence."

"The Manor House is a lovely late Victorian property with a character all of its own," continues Canning "and we can't wait to show people around. It took some work to restore it when the current owners bought it in 1993 and it has since been enlarged with an award-winning extension. Like all old buildings though, it requires constant maintenance, and we are fortunate to have a good team who look after that."

If you would like to look around the Manor House and see the results of all the hard work, tickets can be obtained from Godalming Museum. Naturally they are free!

Full details of Heritage Open Days can be found on their website.