Heritage Open Days is a national programme of events that reflects the rich cultural heritage of England and its communities.
2023 marks the second time that cultural venues, businesses and community groups in Keynsham have come together to celebrate England’s biggest heritage festival.
Come and see for yourself the phenomenal history of our town, from the Romans to the present day. There is something to do and see every day – and all events are completely free to attend!
Browse the event listings below, or click the button to download a PDF programme.
What’s On
- Keynsham Through Time: The Abbey and the Brass Mills – Keynsham MakeSpace, BS31 1HF
For the first time in Keynsham, come to see some of the exquisite stone artefacts from our lost medieval abbey, alongside objects from the local brass mills. This pop-up exhibit, curated by local history groups, will share fascinating stories from Keynsham’s medieval and industrial past.
8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 September, 10am-4pm.
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/keynsham-through-time-a-pop-up-exhibition
- Hidden Histories at Durley Hill Cemetery – Durley Hill Cemetery, BS31 2AT
Durley Hill Cemetery is a peaceful Victorian burial ground and the location of a major Roman archaeological site. Come and discover the unusual mortuary chapel, home to striking stained-glass windows and the original funeral bier used by the workhouse. You will also have the opportunity to visit a wildlife table run by Avon Wildlife Trust and get up close to local flora and fauna, including moths.
17 September, 10am – 2pm.
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/hidden-histories-at-keynsham-durley-hill-cemetery1 - Creativity Snapped! Our Heritage in Photographs – Temple Street Canteen, BS31 1EH
Keynsham photography group Snap & Stroll have collaborated with local young people to capture Keynsham’s High Street heritage through photography. The photos have been pulled together into an exhibit that will line the walls of this local coffee shop and community hub.
8, 11, 12, 14, 15 Sept, 8.30am-4pm.
9, 16 Sept, 9am-4pm.
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/creativity-snapped-our-heritage-in-photographs - Keynsham Abbey Open Day – Keynsham Abbey, BS31 2BT
Come and visit one of Keynsham’s hidden gems. Wander around the remains of this significant medieval abbey, founded in 1166, and experience a guided talk by local experts.
9 and 16 Sept, 2pm – 5pm (talk at 2.30pm).
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/keynsham-abbey-open-day1 - Fry’s Somerdale – Then and Now – Somerdale Shed & Community Garden, BS31 2FF
Come and enjoy a guided tour (running hourly), share stories and walk around Somerdale. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the Somerdale Shed project and explore a selection of vintage woodworking tools.
16 Sept, 11am – 4pm.
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/frys-somerdale-then-and-now - Albert Mill Heritage Weekend – Albert Mill, BS31 1UL
Experience Albert Mill, one of Keynsham’s oldest buildings dating back to 1700. This is a unique opportunity to wander around this historic building which is now a private residence. The mill room is a walk-through history with many pieces of original machinery in place. There will be a display of photographs, a historical timeline, a quiz for children and refreshments in the beautiful garden.
9 and 10 September, 10am – 4pm
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/albert-mill - High Street Discovery Trail
Keynsham is full of history… if you just know where to look. Follow the High Street Discovery Trail map to explore historic High Street shops, discover ancient ruins and enjoy beautiful green spaces. Copies available from Keynsham Town Council, Keynsham Library and online.
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/keynsham-high-street-discovery-trail1 - Keynsham Methodism – In the Footsteps of the Wesleys
Explore, see and listen to the history of Methodism from the 1700s century to today. Our curators will introduce you to the story of how John and Charles Wesley, and Methodists since, have influenced the growth and development of life in Keynsham.
11, 13 and 14 September, 10am – 12pm.
More info: https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/event/keynsham-methodism-in-the-footsteps-of-john-wesley
