HERITAGE OPEN DAYS
THE WEEKEND WHEN THOUSANDS WENT TO THE TOP!
A letter from our chairman Jennifer Butterworth published in the Surrey Comet on September 26 paid tribute to all those who contributed to making Heritage Open Days, 2007, in Kingston such a spectacular success.
Among no fewer than 29 properties not normally open to the public were the top of Kingston College, offering spectacular views over the town, across the river to Hampton Court Park, and as far as the Wembley Arch.
In complete contrast was the basement beneath the John Lewis building housing the remains of an Undercroft, or chalk-and-flint cellar, of 1350. It was particularly gratifying that the Undercroft attracted more than 400 visitors, since the Kingston Society is one of the prime movers in a campaign to secure more frequent public access to this historic site.
Other gems on the list included a Greek Orthodox Church, a mosque and a chantry chapel, a Masonic Hall and two schools - and even two night clubs. More places than ever offered refreshments this year.
This was the seventh year in which the Kingston Society has co-ordinated Heritage Open Days weekend in the Royal Borough. The event is publicised by a free colour illustrated brochure prepared by Tony Leitch for the Kingston Society and grant-aided by Kingston Town Neighbourhood Committee.
Jennifer Butterworth will soon be starting to plan Heritage Open Days 2008. She is always seeking new sites to add to the list, so if you have any suggestions for places you would like to see included please let her know.