National Trust sites in Hampshire are offering free entry as part of the Heritage Open Days festival.
The event, running from September 12 to 21, is England’s biggest festival celebrating history and culture, supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery.
The festival allows various organisations to showcase the heritage and culture of different places and communities across the country.
During the festival, many National Trust sites will allow free access on selected days, providing a chance for people to explore local history and beauty.
For National Trust members, it’s an opportunity to bring friends and family to the sites they are already familiar with.
Dogs on leads are welcome at all sites, with assistance dogs only allowed at Winchester City Mill.
Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, will be open from September 12 to 21, 10am to 5pm, with the house open between 11am and 3.30pm.
The Georgian-style house offers a glimpse into 20th-century living with its bedrooms, bathrooms, drawing room, and library.
The house is surrounded by flower-filled gardens, including a walled kitchen garden with fruit, vegetables, and companion planting.
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Hinton Ampner also offers panoramic views over the South Downs and several estate walks.
Mottisfont, near Romsey, will be open on September 20 and 21, from 10am to 5pm, with the house open from 11am to 4.30pm.
The former Augustinian priory turned country house retains original medieval features and offers a range of activities, including free guided walks and a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang exhibition.
On September 20, the Sandham Memorial Chapel will offer visitors a chance to see a series of large-scale murals by Sir Stanley Spencer.
There will be guided tours and poetry readings from First World War poets in the chapel.
Winchester City Mill will open on September 20 and 21 from 11am to 3pm.
The historic watermill, which dates back to Saxon times, will offer guided tours, and visitors can learn about the mill’s history and wildlife.
The Out There Actions performance troupe will also entertain visitors with a ten-minute family show.
The Heritage Open Days festival provides a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of various sites for free, bringing communities closer to their local heritage.
For more information about the festival, visit the Heritage Open Days website.
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