The 50th anniversary of the nationalisation of the island’s bus service will be among the events marked during this year’s Heritage Open Days Festival.
Now in its 17th year, the festival gives people the chance to go behind the scenes at museums, embark on guided tours and gain access to landmarks not usually open to the public.
This year’s programme features several new additions, including vintage bus tours run by Bus Vannin and Jurby Transport Museum to mark 50 years since the nationalisation of the Island’s bus service.
Visitors can also enjoy a sculptural stroll through Douglas and St John’s with the Isle of Man Arts Council, while ‘Stories in the Stones’ at Kirk Andreas will showcase some of the Island’s most impressive medieval crosses.
There is also a chance to explore the work taking place behind the scenes at Manx National Heritage, with its ‘Dead Zoo’ tour offering access to the natural history store, alongside a separate tour of its art store.
Visitors can also uncover the curious connection between Cronk Howe Mooar, known as Fairy Hill, and the Bayeux Tapestry.
A number of popular favourites are also returning, including tours of the State Rooms at Government House, behind-the-scenes visits to the Gaiety Theatre, a look around Molly Corrooin’s Cottage in Onchan and special tours of Okell’s Brewery.
Connie Lovel, chief executive of MNH, said: ‘There is something for everyone in this year’s programme, which opens doors, sparks curiosity and invites people of all ages to experience the Isle of Man’s rich heritage. Best of all, every event is completely free of charge.’
The Heritage Open Days Festival takes place on October 2-4 and 9-11 and, while events are free, advance booking is required.
Bookings open at 12 noon on Thursday, September 24, via Eventbrite. If an event is fully booked, an online waiting list will be available.
The full programme is available to download from the Manx National Heritage website.
Bookings can also be made through the Manx National Heritage website or by calling 648091.