Downham Market set to open properties and offer exciting activities as part of Heritage Open Day this year

Plans are in hand for Downham to make a splash in this year's national Heritage Open Day (HOD) celebrations.

It is developing into an exciting free community event, opening up properties hidden from the public’s view, and showcasing the heritage of the Georgian market town – it is taking place on Sunday, September 21 from 10am-4pm.

The theme of this year's event is ‘architecture’, which fits in well with Downham which is affectionately known as the ’gingerbread town’ due to its many carrstone buildings.

Diane Drewry, one of the organisers, said: “We hope that this event will raise the profile of Downham and we look forward to welcoming a great number of residents and visitors of all ages, to make the town and surrounding area the tourist hub it deserves to be.”

HOD is a week-long event and is England’s largest volunteer-led festival of history and culture organised by the National Trust.

It is entirely free to the public. Coordinated by the Discover Downham Heritage Centre, with support from the Downham Town Council, there will be lots for the public to see and do.

Alongside the venues will be a number of other attractions. Visitors can enjoy a trip on a vintage bus, a gingerbread guided walk around the town centre, and visit Discover Downham centre to see Mike Bullen’s popular ‘Then and Now’ local photos and postcards – a fire engine will be there too.

Have you ever noticed there is a door in the famous town clock? Now is the chance to peek inside.

Town crier Ray Wales will read the Proclamation and a re-enactment group will add colour and excitement to the day.

There will be a trail for children to explore the town, specially designed post box toppers, musical entertainment, photographic and art exhibitions in the town hall celebrating the architecture of Downham. Traditional crafts will be demonstrated in the town hall as well.

If you would like to get involved and open your building in Downham on Heritage Open Day, be a volunteer, or if you can help sponsor in some way, then get in touch by email at info@discoverdownham.org.uk