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Sheffield Heritage Open Days is back for 2026, the festival that brings communities together to celebrate heritage and history.
Part of the national Heritage Open Days festival, it runs from 11 to 20 September, and gives members of the public chance to enjoy free access to experiences and events across England.
This years theme is ‘Everyday Histories’, aimed for people to explore stories of the daily working lives of our ancestors.
Sheffield will be hosting over a hundred free events, making the city one of the largest Heritage Open Days centres in the country.
The festival is presented by National Trust, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers.
We have compiled a list of nine historic sites for you and your family to visit throughout the month.
1. Sheffield's historic Portland Works dates back to 1879, and is one of the earliest surviving examples of an integrated metal trades complex. The Grade II listed building became the first place in the world to manufacture stainless steel cutlery. It will be open for bookable tours on 15, 16 and 19 September, so if this sounds like an exciting day out, you can book free tickets via Eventbrite.
Portland Works, Randall Street | Google maps
2. Generations of skilled people spent their entire working lives here. It was once a producer of agricultural tools, such as Scythes, and the largest water-powered industrial site on the River Sheaf. On 17 September, the public is invited to to see what life was like for the people who lived and worked there. Photo: Sheffield Council
The mill pond at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet. Photo: Sheffield Council | Sheffield Council
3. Ever wondered what the inside of the city's town hall looks like? On 11 September, you can find out on a special tour hosted by historian Janet Ridler. She'll take you behind the scenes through its Victorian chambers and architecture, and tell stories of its famous visitors. Prebooking is required via Eventbrite
Sheffield Town Hall, Pinstone Street, Sheffield | Google maps
4. Explore the 18th Century Meersbrook Hall on 11 and 18 September. A place which housed the Ruskin Museum in Sheffield for 63 years from 1890 to 1953. A fun fact about it, is that Florence Nightingale once stayed here! You can prebook by contacting [email protected]
Meersbrook Hall, Brook Road | Google Maps