Hundreds of Norfolk buildings open for heritage event

Organiser Kim Leonard says, without visitors, historic buildings are just empty walls

Hundreds of buildings across Norfolk have been opened up to visitors for the county's annual Heritage Open Days event.

It is a chance for people to go inside places normally closed to visitors to learn about their history and how they are used now.

The county-wide event runs for 10 days until 15 September, except in King's Lynn, where it takes place on Sunday, 8 September only.

Fifty buildings are opening in the town, which was once among Britain's most important ports.

This year's event focusses on sites with transport and faith connections

Organiser Kim Leonard said they would welcome hundreds of visitors from all over the country.

His highlights include the opening of the Sommerfeld & Thomas warehouse on South Quay in King's Lynn.

The 18th Century grain store has been closed since the 1980s but was recently renovated.

"If it wasn't for Heritage Open Days, you'd never get inside it," he said.

"King's Lynn is a hidden gem, really. A lot of people just drive past on the A47 or A10. Hunstanton's nice but King's Lynn is nicer."

Fakenham Gas Works will be part of Heritage Open Days for the first time

Elsewhere, visitors to Fakenham Gas Works can see all the equipment used to manufacture gas from coal.

Event producer Katie Ellis said many of the buildings taking part in the free event had activities for families.

"It’s Heritage Open Days’ 30th anniversary, marking three decades of honouring the ordinary and extraordinary, and we’re ready to celebrate," she said.