A range of Neath Port Talbot attractions and sites of heritage interest are opening their doors to visitors during September 2011 as part of the Civic Trust Wales’ Open Doors Programme.
Altogether there are 14 events happening in Neath Port Talbot during September and visitors will even get free entry!
Open Doors Days take place throughout Wales and offer the public free access to places and buildings of historic and architectural interest. Buildings which are normally free to visit put on something special.
This is the first year that there has been a full programme of Open Doors events in Neath Port Talbot and there is something on offer for all ages from a walk and talk with the Brunel Dock Society in Briton Ferry to family events at Margam Park and Neath Abbey.
Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Councillor Ali Thomas says, ‘These events will showcase the fantastic heritage that we have in Neath Port Talbot and what’s more visitors and residents alike can have a great day out for free!’
Full details of the events are as follows:
Neath Abbey Open Weekend
Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th September, 11am to 4pm.
See the ruins of the splendid Cistercian Abbey and a grand Tudor house. See sections of the Abbey not normally open to the public.
Aberdulais Tin Works and Waterfall Open Day
Saturday 10th September
10am to 5pm
Spend a day with us at this unique location that is as picturesque as it is historic. The waterfall has been a source of power for industry since Elizabethan times, a tradition that continues to this day.
Brunel Dock Walk and Talk with the Brunel Dock Society
Saturday 10th September
12pm to 2pm
Meeting at the Brunel Tower, this event features a guided talk and tour of the Briton Ferry Dock and accumulator tower, designed by Brunel between 1853 and 1861. The dock also boasts the remains of a unique single gate.
South Wales Miners Museum Open Day
Saturday 17th September
10.30 to 4.30pm
Nestled in the beautiful Afan Valley, this volunteer-run museum has a simulated gallery showing the everyday struggles of Afan miners and their families. Includes a miner’s kitchen and outside exhibits.
Margam Country Park Tour
Tuesday 6th, Thursday 8th, Tuesday 13th, Thursday 15th, Sunday 18th, Tuesday
20th, Thursday 22nd,Sunday 25th, Tuesday 27th, Thursday 29th September.
10am to 5pm.
Guided tours with the Friends of Margam – meet 11am and 2pm at the Castle. Tours will explore Margam’s history including its associations with the Mansels and Talbots. Exploration of the mansion will include upper floors. Parking £3.70.
For further details on these events go to www.opendoorsdays.org.uk.
