Some of the island’s lesser-known historical sites will open their doors to the public next month as Manx National Heritage’s annual open days take place.

It is the island’s largest free festival of heritage and cultural events, with more than 80 events taking place over the first two weekends in October.

The ethos of the festival is to open the doors to historic places in the Isle of Man that are not usually accessible to the public and to reveal their lesser known stories.

To take part in the festival, organisations, individuals and groups provide public access to buildings, landscapes and displays that are usually closed to the public, normally have an admission fee or can provide extra information to explain the significance of the area.

The events take place all over the island, whatever the weather.

Director of Manx National Heritage Edmund Southworth, said: ’Over the years, the open days have become embedded in our annual programme and we know many people look forward to it.

’The event originally started in the island with the idea of opening up places that were normally hidden from view or difficult to access.

’Eleven years later, it has become a celebration not only of the island’s built heritage, but also of many aspects of Manx culture.

’This year has been a challenging one because of Covid-19.

While the island is currently experiencing a period of local elimination, we have to be ready if the infection resurfaces.

’So this year, the programme is smaller and based on sites and activities we know can be safe.

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’We’ll be ready for change at short notice, so will be asking everyone to pre-book and provide contact details in case we need to get in touch.

’The positive side is we have been able to create a more focused programme, which harks back to the original aim of opening up hidden places to explore.’

Events range from a gentle walk with Blue Badge guide Marinda Faragher in Ballaglass Glen to a guided tour of Ballaughton Nurseries, which will provide a insight into how Douglas Council’s park services produce plants for the town and how the management of the town’s parks and open spaces is undertaken.

There’s also a rare opportunity to visit the Viking Ship Burial at Knock-e-Dhoonee with MNH trustee Dave Martin and a tour of the state rooms of Government House, Loch Library, and highlights of the extensive gardens with Charles Guard.

The full programme can be found online at http://www.manxnationalheritage.im/whats-on with bookings opening tomorrow, Wednesday, September 16 at 7pm.