Discover the rich history, heritage and hidden stories of Doncaster this September as Heritage Open Days returns for 2026.
From medieval churches and historic houses to guided walks, exhibitions and hands-on workshops, this year’s programme offers a unique opportunity to explore the borough’s past in new and engaging ways. Many events are free to attend, with plenty of family-friendly options, giving everyone the chance to step inside remarkable places, hear fascinating stories and celebrate the people, places and traditions that have shaped Doncaster over the centuries.
The Good, The Bad and The Ugly 11th-20th Sep
Details: Photography exhibition exploring historic buildings and architecture.
Doncaster Heritage Art Exhibition 13th- 20th Sep
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: An art exhibition celebrating Doncaster’s heritage.
Sand House History Podcasts
Details: A podcast series exploring the story of Doncaster’s Sand House, taking you through the history of Doncaster's lost Victorian marvel, the Sand House, from the early 19th century to the present day.
12 Sep 2026
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Legend has it that Robin Hood was married here when Campsall lay on the edge of Sherwood Forest.
Location: St Michael & All Angels Church, Straight Lane, Doncaster, DN6 8LX
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: A medieval church rebuilt after an 1870 fire, showcasing farming and quarrying history.
Location: St Laurence's Church, Village Street, Doncaster, DN6 7AD
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Explore medieval architecture, artefacts, and displays of local history.
Location: Flying Scotsman Room, Danum Gallery, Library & Museum, Doncaster, DN1 3BZ
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Required
Details: Create a new song inspired by Doncaster’s historic Sand House with experienced songwriters.
Location: Barnburgh Hall Gardens, Barnburgh, Doncaster, DN5 7DS
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: View a preserved 16th-century dovecote with links to Thomas More.
Location: St Peter’s Church, 187 Warmsworth Road, Doncaster, DN4 0TW
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Exhibitions, archived records, textiles, and refreshments available.
14 Sep 2026
Location: 59 St Mary’s Road, Doncaster, DN1 2NR
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Explore this 1885 church designed by Edmund Beckett.
15 Sep 2026
Location: St Catherine's House, Woodfield Park, Tickhill Road, Doncaster, DN4 8QP
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Required
Details: A behind-the-scenes tour of this historic house and its walled garden.
16 Sep 2026
Location: Hooton Pagnell Hall, Doncaster, DN5 7BW
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Explore gardens, buildings, and estate history.
Location: St Helena's Church, High Street, Doncaster, DN10 6QU
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: An 11th-century Norman church with rare features and Mayflower history.
17 Sep 2026
Location: St Peter in Chains Church, Doncaster, DN1 2AA
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Illustrated talk by Catherine Taggart followed by refreshments.
18 Sep 2026
Location: The Old Butcher’s Café & Bistro, Doncaster, DN7 5JJ
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Required
Details: Guided walk through the historic village of Fishlake.
Location: Fishlake Village Hall, Doncaster, DN7 5JR
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Exhibition on wartime rural life, rationing, and resilience.
19 Sep 2026
Location: St Nicholas Church, Church Street, Doncaster, DN10 6HW
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Climb the tower, explore the church, and try bell ringing.
Location: Saint Wilfrid's Parish Church, Doncaster, DN5 7BB
Type: In person | Pre-booking: Not required
Details: Explore the church, its history, and the mystery of the skulls on display.
11 Sep 26, 12:00 - 20 Sep 26, 17:00
If you like this, take a look at the other fantastic attractions in Doncaster.
