Heritage Open Days at Newport Roman Villa and the Museum of Island History
September’s Heritage Open Days will offer the chance to visit two of Newport’s historic gems for free.
Newport Roman Villa will open free of charge on Friday 6th September (10.30am-2.30pm) providing an opportunity to discover more about life on the Isle of Wight over 1700 years ago. Discovered when the owners of a nearby house sank new foundations for a garage in 1926, visitors will be able to explore the well-preserved ruins, bath suite and hypocaust of this 3rd century farmhouse as well as enjoying the Roman-inspired garden.
The Museum of Island History will also open free of charge on Saturday 7th September (10am-1pm). Situated in Newport’s historic Guildhall, the museum provides an introduction to the history of the Isle of Wight from fossils to festivals. See newly acquired items including the whistle from a steam engine which helped build the PLUTO pipeline which was later converted to a doorbell by Agricultural Engineer John Palmer, and a ship badge from HMS Shearwater a naval vessel built at J. S. White’s in 1939. There are also displays of images from the museum’s collection of historic landscape art, an exhibition exploring Historic Newport as well as family-friendly activities and trails.
Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture, involving thousands of local volunteers and organisations. Every year in September it brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. Stories are told, traditions explored, and histories brought to life. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all FREE.
These events are organised by the Isle of Wight Heritage Service.
To find out more about Heritage Open Days and what other events are available on the Island and across the UK visit the website.
