THE hidden treasures of Keynsham can be discovered next month as part of Heritage Open Days.
The national festival returns between September 8 and 17 to play its part in Keynsham’s High Street Cultural Programme.
Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all free.
Keynsham’s cultural project coordinator, Beth Whalley, said: “There is a wealth of amazing history in our town, but if you don’t know where to look, you might just miss it.
“We’re so excited to be working with B&NES Heritage Services, passionate local experts, community groups and other history enthusiasts to showcase all the heritage Keynsham has to offer – from the Romans right through to the present day.”
Whether you’re an adult, teenager or toddler, there will be something for everyone.
Keynsham Pop-Up Exhibition: Sharing fascinating stories from Keynsham’s medieval and industrial histories and displaying – for the first time in Keynsham – exquisite decorative stone artefacts from the abbey (Keynsham MakeSpace, September 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17).
Creativity Snapped! – Our Heritage in Photographs: A photographic display of Keynsham’s High Street heritage, created by Snap & Stroll in collaboration with young people locally (Temple Street Canteen, September 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17).
Albert Mill Open Day: A walk through history with pieces of original machinery and photographs, a timeline, a family quiz, and refreshments in the gardens (Albert Mill, September 9 and 10).
Keynsham Abbey Site Open Day: Wander around the remains of this significant medieval abbey, founded in 1166, and experience a guided tour given by local experts (Keynsham Memorial Park, September 9 and 16).
Fry’s Somerdale – Then and Now: Enjoy a guided tour and walks around Somerdale, originally the home of a factory making some of Cadbury’s most famous products (Somerdale Shed and Community Garden, September 16).
Hidden Histories at Durley Hill Cemetery: Drop in and discover this peaceful Victorian burial ground and learn how it became a major Roman archaeological site in the 1920s (Durley Hill Cemetery, date to be confirmed). For visitor information and the most up-to-date event listings, visit www.hikeynsham.co.uk/whats-on or pick up a leaflet from Keynsham Town Council’s offices at 15-17 Temple Street.
Keynsham Heritage Open Days is supported by Keynsham’s Local Cultural Programme, part of Historic England’s National Cultural Programme. It is funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s Heritage High Street Fund; the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Future High Streets Fund; and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Pictured, Keynsham’s Albert Mill is among this year’s attractions Photo: Mike May