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Heritage open days at jewels in county crown
Historic buildings normally off-limits to the public are set to open to allow visitors to have a chance to experience them as part of Heritage Open Days.
The Talbot Hotel, a 16th century coaching Inn in Oundle, is one of the attractions allowing people to have a sneak-peek behind the scenes.
Visitors can see a stone facade which was transferred from nearby Fotheringay Castle and the oak staircase which Mary Queen of Scots was said to have used before her execution.
Properties across the county are opening their doors in the annual event supported by English Heritage between Thursday, September 9, and Sunday, September 12.
Some of the other highlights include a tour of Rothwell Market House, which was built by Sir Thomas Tresham in 1577 but not completed until 1895. Tours, which take place on September 11 and 12 at 2.30pm, start at the Market House in Market Hill.
Visitors can see the incomplete Elizabethan lodge at Lyveden New Bield in Harley Way, Oundle, which was also built by Sir Thomas Tresham to symbolise his Catholic faith. Lyveden remains virtually unaltered since work stopped upon his death in 1605. Walkers can explore the Lyveden
Way, a circular path through beautiful meadows, woodland and villages.
The 12th century St Mary's Church, in High Street, Rushden, will be opening its doors to allow the public to have escorted visits to the bell chamber, and will feature trade craft displays and exhibitions of birds of prey on September 11.
English Heritage spokesman Rebecca Fawcett said: "There is a Heritage Open Day attraction around every corner, each with a compelling story to tell, and staffed by volunteers who are passionate about their buildings, neighbourhoods and heritage. The breadth of the properties opening this year is quite remarkable. But there are also scores of
hands-on activities. There really is something for all ages."
Elsewhere in the county, hands-on activities using quill pens and based on archives are set to take place at Irchester Country Park and Chester Farm, in Gipsy Lane , Little Irchester, on September 12. Families can also visit the farm – the site of the only walled Roman town in the county not to be built over.
In Northampton the attractions include a Sikh temple, churches and museums. For more information visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk or call 0207 539 7907.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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