From a guided tour of a WWII air raid shelter in Peel to a chance to see St John’s Mill in action, there is plenty to discover at Manx National Heritage’s upcoming open days.

More than 50 tours and events take place across the island this weekend (Friday to Sunday) and next weekend (October 6 to 8).

It builds on the success of last year’s event, which saw more than 3,000 visits to events.

MNH community outreach officer Katie King said: ’Now in its eighth year, Heritage Open Days really is an anticipated highlight of the autumn calendar.

’We’d like to extend our thanks to the MNH trustees for once again funding the printing along with a huge thank you to all the wonderful, enthusiastic partners across the island who run all the brilliant events.

’Come and get involved, we hope to see you out and about.’

The Tynwald building, the Public Record Office’s storage facility at Spring Valley, the Gaiety Theatre and St John’s Mill in St John’s are just some of the buildings that visitors can enjoy a tour of.

Volunteers from the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway will be providing a behind the scenes view of the tram horses.

And Isle of Man Railways is holding steam railway workshops.

The Goods Shed, in Ballaugh, will host an exhibition of historical research on the animal kingdom thanks to Ballaugh Heritage Trust.

There is a chance to find out about the history of both Agneash Methodist Chapel and St Luke’s Church, in Baldwin.

Molly Carrooin’s Cottage, in Onchan, will be open for visitors to learn how people lived here without any mains services.

Ramsey Heritage Centre is hosting a guided walk through south Ramsey.

And Peel Heritage Trust is leading a walk entitled War and Peace which will take in internment camps, swimming pools and a WWII air raid shelter.

For many of the events, booking is required.

Some of the events and tours, including tours of the Nunnery and Pulrose power station and a pub walk with Heron & Brearley, are already fully booked.

For more information about the free events and tours, pick up a leaflet from the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal.

Alternatively, download the full programme online at www.manxnationalheritage.im