Heritage Open Days have created 10 days of behind-the-scenes access to Manchester's most historic places

Starting this weekend, Heritage Open Days are throwing open the door to loads of historic buildings across the country, many of which are right here in Manchester.

From Friday 6 to Sunday 15 September, there are hundreds of free events spanning history, art, politics, architecture and the great outdoors.

For example, you can tour the Victorian splendour of Ashton Old Baths, take part in an empowering poetry workshop at the Pankhurst Museum or even take a rare opportunity to climb the bell tower of Grade II listed St Paul’s Parish Church in Stalybridge.

You can also experience a heritage tour of Manchester’s storied Victoria Baths, Stockport’s art deco Plaza Cinema and the mansion house in Lyme Park, one of Cheshire’s most stunning parks.

Running for 10 days every September, Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture.

This year marks their 30th anniversary, and the theme is Routes – Networks – Connections, with the aim to ‘bring together the past and present in a festival that includes workshops, talks, hidden spaces, walks and activities for all the family’.

You can view the entire programme on the Heritage Open Days website.