GMDT supports the national Heritage Open Days (HODs) festival. This takes place every September and we are actively involved in providing administrative support and publicity on the HODs website, as well as producing and distributing posters and leaflets for the event, and providing publicity packs for the venues taking part.
An intensive programme takes place during which many of Morpeth’s churches, heritage buildings and organisations provide special free events or venue openings. These include: guided walks; exhibitions; a lecture; poetry readings; a chance to see the bells in the Clock Tower and the Town Treasures in the civic rooms of the Town Hall.
GMDT’s co-ordination of HODs events across Morpeth and its surrounding area sees our community taking an active part in highlighting the importance of our heritage and its part in local life. Our local community is actively encouraged to join in, and the whole project is run by volunteers. The 2026 HODs will be project managed by GMDT’s volunteer Carol Elliott. While there is no funding support provided by the national HODs team, online marketing, display materials and advice are provided by the team and their partners, the National Trust and People’s Postcode Lottery.