History comes alive in Droitwich Spa this September as the town opens its doors for Heritage Open Days – a national celebration of culture, community, and the stories that shaped us.
Whether you’re a lifelong history buff or just curious about the stories that lie beneath your feet, Droitwich Spa invites you to explore its rich heritage, iconic buildings and hidden gems. From stunning mosaics and tours to virtual recreations, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Location: Church of Sacred Heart, Worcester Road, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8AZ
Date: 12pm – 5pm, 13 September 2025
Cost: FREE
Visit this stunning church in all its glory! The church’s mosaics have recently undergone a full restoration after receiving a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The original ‘cartoons’ – the full-size designs by Gabriel Pippet, have also been restored and digitised and these can be viewed in the visitor centre.
During Heritage Open Day visitors can make their own mini mosaic to take home with them.
Please note, no booking required. Tea and cake will be available to purchase in the pop-up café.
Parking: Ample free parking to the rear of the church. Disabled parking is available at the front of the church (off Worcester Road). There is ramp access to the church and level access to the church hall.
For more information, visit http://www.sacredheartdroitwich.org.uk/ or contact volunteers.sacredheart.droitwich@rcaob.org.uk
Location: Westlands Community Hall, Meadow Way, Droitwich, WR9 9BF
Date: 1pm-4pm, Saturday 20September,
Be transported back in time with a new virtual reality recreation and see how Willow Court looked at different times in history including when it was first built. These virtual recreations showcase both the inside and outside of the building.
Meet the oral history research team behind the project and hear the memories of Willow Court they have spent months collecting, keeping local history alive.
This is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of Willow CourtFarmhouse as well as how Worcestershire Building Preservation Trust, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, are restoring and converting it into affordable rented flats to secure its future.
Please note, you do not need to book. Refreshments won’t be available.
For more information, email Janine Rusby at projectadmin@wbpt.org.uk.
Address: Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre, St Richards House, Victoria Square, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8DS
Date: 10:30am and 12pm, Saturday 13September
Discover Droitwich Spa Heritage Centre’s links to the past and the town’s famous Brine Baths with a 40-minute guided tour. Droitwich Spa’s brine baths, renowned for their therapeutic waters, have a rich history dating back to the 19th century, capitalising on the town’s natural brine springs. While the original brine baths have closed, the site is now home to the Droitwich Heritage & Information Centre, and there are ongoing efforts to revive the brine bath experience.
As part of the tour, visitors will then be taken up into the archive where they will be able to see parts of the museum’s collection which are not normally on display to the public. As well as getting an exclusive insight into the centre’s future including its plans for a new refurb.
Please note, you will need to book a place on the tour. The tour is for over 16s only. Refreshments won’t be available.
To book and for more information, call 01905 774312 or email Rebecca at heritage@droitwichspa.gov.uk
Location: The upstairs gallery at Droitwich Spa library, Victoria Square, Droitwich WR9 8DQs
Date: From 6 September – 30 October | Refer to library opening times and note the room will be occupied by community groups on certain dates.
No booking required
An exhibition of photos, illustrations and descriptions detailing the various periods of Droitwich Spa’s history. From the Ice Age, Iron Age and Roman periods to the Saxon, Middle Ages and Medieval times through to Tudor times, before leading onto Victorian times and the height of the salt industry when John Corbett transformed ‘Droitwich’ into ‘Droitwich Spa’.
The exhibition will also cover some more recent history with additional displays including local maps, and info on the local canals and Willow Court. Dates and times for these additional topics will be shared at the exhibition.
Disabled access is available using the library’s lift.
Address: Hampton Lovett Church, The Forest, Hampton Lovett, Droitwich, WR9 0LU
Date: 10am-4pm, Saturday 13September and 10am – 2pm, Sunday 14September
This is a national year-long event that celebrates two centuries of the railways and their place in our heritage. The main feature will be ‘The Hampton Lovett Heritage Railway’ – a stunning working 00-gauge railway model which will be in the church.
While you’re there, take part in a guided or virtual tour of the church’s recently reopened C14th tower. Guided tower tours are limited to 3 persons (aged 10 and over). No need to prebook but there may be waiting time. The tower steps are curved, steep and narrow. Sensible footwear required. A video tour will be available.
There will also be a book sale, and photo-quiz for children
Light refreshments are available. Parking and toilets are available at parish rooms.
For more information, call 01905 779091.
