Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days Return to Rugby between 6-15 September


From tours on a Midland Red vintage bus, to Rugby Theatre backstage tours and Rugby's own distillery revealing its secrets, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy - right on your doorstep and all completely free!
Each year, thousands of volunteers across the country donate their time to make Heritage Open Days happen. Rugby Visitor Centre has collated all events for Rugby Borough and immediate surroundings.

Take a look at some of this year's highlights below. The full programme is available on our What's on page, or download the leaflet.

Booking is essential for some events. Early booking is advisable, as spaces will go quickly. Book online or call the Visitor Centre on 01788 533217.  

186 Years of Rugby's Railway Connections

Saturday 7 September 
11:00 - 14:00
What was and what might have been.
Celebrating this years’ Heritage Open Days theme Routes - Networks – Connections, join Paul Banks of Rugby Local History Group for this talk on Rugby’s Railway history.  

Booking essential.

Rugby Theatre Backstage Tour

Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September
10:00 - 17:00
Go behind the scenes at Rugby Theatre, stand on the stage or behind in the winds! Visit our scenic department where all our sets are designed and built; and there may also be rehearsals for our upcoming shows. Find out how YOU can get involved.
Get the chance to plot lighting and sound effects, and see all our backstage areas in action, as we gear up for our Autumn production of Thomas Hardy’s classic - ‘Far From the Madding Crowd’.

Rugby Gin Distillery Tour

Wednesday 11 and Friday 13 September 
11:00 - 12:30
A visit to the distillery on their beautiful farm location, which will include a talk on how Rugby Distillery came about. The tour will consist of us telling you about how Rugby Distillery was created and how we craft Rugby gin from the start of the process to the very end.

Wheelchair accessible, assistance dogs allowed. Accessible toilets on site.

 

Guided Walking Tours

Saturday 7 September and 14 September

Join our award-winning volunteer Town Guides on fascinating town centre walking tours.
Discover more about Rugby's rich heritage or take a tour of our public works of art.
Saturday 7 and 14 September 11:00 - Heritage Walk
Saturday 14 September 14:00 - Public Art Trail