WOKINGHAM is inviting residents and visitors to take a step back in time for this year’s National Heritage Open Days celebration, England’s largest festival of history and culture.
The national theme for 2025 is ‘Architecture’, and Wokingham will be honouring its rich Victorian heritage with a day of immersive, family-friendly activities hosted in and around the Grade II listed Town Hall.
Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Lou Timlin said: “Heritage Open Days are a brilliant way to celebrate Wokingham’s unique past and bring our community together.
“This year’s theme of architecture gives us the perfect opportunity to showcase the beauty and story of our magnificent Victorian Town Hall.
“Whether you’re a history buff, a curious local, or just looking for a great family day out, there’s something for everyone.
“We can’t wait to welcome our fellow time travellers.”
Organised by the town council and local partners, the event promises a fun and educational journey into Victorian Wokingham, with something for all ages.
Visitors will discover what came before the current Town Hall, learn how it was constructed, and explore the vibrant culture and industry of the Victorian era.
Highlights will include: a Victorian police carriage with ‘real’ Victorian officers; 3D scan of the Town Hall and information about its construction; and Victorian architecture displays and local history exhibits.
There will also be children’s games from the Victorian era, craft activities (making a lavender bag or trying decoupage); building the Town Hall of the Future with Brickies; and a free guided history walk around the town centre, led by the Wokingham Society
Heritage enthusiasts can enjoy extended celebrations at All Saints Church, Wokingham, with a Victorian architecture exhibition highlighting the influence of Henry Woodyer on the medieval building.
All Saints Church guided tours will be available from Saturday, September 13 until Sunday, September 21.
And on Sunday, September 21, from 1.30pm until 4pm, All Saints Church Tower can be climbed for panoramic views of Wokingham.
The Heritage Open Day Victorian Time-Travelling event is at Wokingham Town Hall, on Saturday, September 20, from 11am until 3pm, with the history walk starting at 10am.
To book the walk, people should visit: ticketsource.co.uk and search for Wokingham Town Council.
For information, visit: wokingham-tc.gov.uk and allsaintswokingham.org.uk
