28th annual European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) in Northern Ireland 2025 - unique opportunity to explore historic cottages, mills, private houses, walks and talks
Next weekend will see an annual opportunity to explore historic buildings and locations across Northern Ireland thanks to European Heritage Days.
The 28th annual European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) take place on Saturday 13 September and Sunday 14 September, giving the public the chance to visit a variety of venues and events including historic cottages, mills, private houses, walks and talks - all for free.
“The EHOD theme this year is ‘Architectural Heritage – Past Structures – Future Connections’, which focuses on bringing together the past and present through this heritage festival.
Features include architecture, workshops, talks, hidden spaces, walks and activities, with something to interest everyone, young and old.
With over 260 venues taking part in the annual event, it provides a unique opportunity for everyone to see ‘behind closed doors’ and explore the wonderful shared cultural heritage right on our doorstep.
Highlights this year include;-
:: A tour of Belfast Castle;
:: Behind the scenes at the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division Conservation Works Depot in Moira;
:: Tour of the Primate’s Palace, Armagh, a beautiful neo-classical building dating from 18th century;
:: Open Day at St. John's Point Lightkeepers' Houses in Co. Down;
:: A walking tour of Ebrington Barracks with Department for Communities' Principal Conservation Architect Manus Deery as he examines the development of the site and its fortifications over 162 years.
A digital brochure including a list of venues and events can be found at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/articles/european-heritage-open-days or download the EHOD 2025 App.
Whilst all events are free, some require pre-booking at: https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/arts-culture-and-heritage/european-heritage-open-days