Ripon Throws Open Its Doors: Heritage Open Days 2026 Brings New Sites and Rare Access
Ripon is gearing up for one of its most exciting Heritage Open Days yet, with two brand-new venues joining the programme for 2026 and a rare chance for the public to step inside one of the City’s best-kept secrets
Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture, returns this year with Ripon once again playing a starring role. For four days, the City’s historic buildings, hidden corners and community spaces will throw open their doors completely free of charge, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to explore places that are usually off-limits or easily overlooked.
View the full brochure here: HODS 2026 brochure
New for 2026
Topping the list of exciting additions this year is The Portly Pig, a much-loved local spot that will be welcoming Heritage Open Days visitors for the very first time. Expect a warm welcome and a chance to discover a little more about the building’s history and character alongside its usual charm.
Joining it on the programme is the Chapel and Hospital of St Anne, another newcomer to the trail, giving visitors fresh ground to explore and yet another reason to spend a day wandering the City’s streets with a Heritage Open Days guide in hand.
A Once-a-Year Chance to See The Gazebo
Perhaps the biggest draw for regulars will be the return of The Gazebo to the programme. This charming and rarely-seen structure is only ever opened to the public during Heritage Open Days, making it a genuine once-a-year opportunity. Anyone who has walked past and wondered what lies behind its walls now has their chance – but only for this brief window, so it’s well worth planning ahead.
Something for Everyone
With returning favourites alongside these exciting new additions, Ripon’s 2026 programme promises to be bigger and better than ever. From historic churches and civic buildings to quirky, lesser-known gems, there’s something to delight history lovers, families, and curious first-time visitors alike.
To help everyone make the most of it, Ripon BID will be producing a full brochure detailing every site, opening time and special event taking place across the festival. Whether you’re planning a single afternoon out or a full week of exploring, the brochure will be the essential guide to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
Plan Your Visit
Heritage Open Days is a fantastic – and completely free – way to see Ripon in a whole new light. With new venues to discover, a rare glimpse inside The Gazebo, and a full programme of events to explore, there has never been a better excuse to spend a day (or several!) in our beautiful Cathedral City.
Keep an eye out for the Ripon BID brochure for full details of dates, times and locations, and start planning your Heritage Open Days adventure today. Ripon is ready to welcome you – doors open, stories waiting.
For more information on Heritage Open Days in Ripon see Heritage Open Days
