As part of England’s largest festival of history and culture, the National Trust is joining thousands of organisations across the country to offer opportunities for people to discover fascinating stories, historic places and local heritage by opening the gates to everyone for free entry. Heritage Open Days invites people of all ages to connect with their local area, explore new places and gain a deeper understanding of the stories that have helped shape Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.
Louise Walker, General Manager at National Trust Hughenden, said: “Heritage Open Days is a fantastic opportunity for people to discover the incredible history on their doorstep. Whether you’re passionate about local heritage or simply looking for a free day out with family and friends, there’s something for everyone. This year’s theme, ‘Everyday Histories’, encourages us to celebrate the stories of ordinary people whose lives have shaped the places we know and love today.”
Across the region, visitors will have the chance to enjoy a variety of experiences, from guided walks and heritage tours to talks, exhibitions and behind-the-scenes discoveries at historic sites. Here’s what’s on in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire for Heritage Open Days:
Hughenden, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire
Free entry 11-20 September
Hughenden is a historic manor house set in formal gardens, rolling parkland, and ancient woodlands. Once a modest Georgian home, it was transformed into a grand Victorian estate by Benjamin Disraeli, Queen Victoria’s favourite prime minister. You can also find out how Hughenden played a significant role as a top-secret map-making operation the Second World War.
During Heritage Open Days, discover the work of Buckinghamshire Artists and Makers in the studybase at Hughenden including painting, photography, printing, textiles, ceramics, glasswork, jewellery, and sculpture.
Heritage Open Days & Bucks Artists and Makers Art Exhibition | National Trust
Stowe Gardens, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire
Free entry 11-20 September
Explore Stowe’s 250 acres of landscaped gardens on meandering paths around lakes, temples, monuments and statues.
On Sat 19 and Sun 20 September you’ll be able to see inside the iconic Gothic Temple (usually an exclusive Landmark Trust holiday cottage), Stowe’s parish church, Temple of Concord and Victory, and Dido’s cave.
Heritage Open Week | National Trust
Cliveden, nr Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire
Free entry 14-18 September
Set high above the Thames with far-reaching views, Cliveden’s impressive gardens and majestic woodlands are both grand and picturesque. There is a series of formal gardens to explore, each with its own character and charm and a tree-lined avenue leading to myriad woodland walks and secluded glades.
For Heritage Open Days, there’s a programme of tours and walks on Hidden Cliveden, history, gardens, photography, chapel, collections and conservation.
Heritage Open Days 2026 at Cliveden | National Trust
Greys Court, nr Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
Free entry 14-16 September
Greys Court is a charming and romantic National Trust property with a medieval tower and delightful series of walled gardens. Volunteers continue many of the traditions beloved by former owner and Women’s Institute chairman Lady Brunner, such as flower arranging, baking and jam-making.
Coinciding with Heritage Open Days is a literal delve into the medieval history of Greys Court with an archaeology excavation on the top lawn. Visitors can chat with the team and witness discoveries as they happen along with the examination and documentation of live finds.
Autumn Archaeology at Greys Court | 12 to 16 September | National Trust
Images (c) Hugh Mothersole/National Trust
Top Greys Court Centre The Palladian Bridge Stow Below Hughenden Manor through the trees
