Heritage Open Days are England’s biggest celebration of history and culture, offering free access to hidden places, guided tours, and special exhibitions across the country. This year’s festival runs from September 12 – 21, 2025, and Ramsgate is once again joining in with a wonderful programme of events that shine a spotlight on our town’s unique history.
The national theme for 2025 is ‘Architecture’ which is a perfect match for Ramsgate, with its striking Georgian terraces, Regency villas, Victorian landmarks, and historic public buildings. In fact, we have just shy of 500 listed buildings and structures in our town! Whether you’re passionate about heritage or just curious to explore what’s on your doorstep, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a taste of what to expect with many more events planned!
A Celebration of Local Events
September 12 – 21, 2025
Ramsgate Tunnels (Open daily, 10am – 4pm)
Explore the history of Ramsgate at a special free exhibition on loan from Imperial College, hosted inside the Ramsgate Tunnels.
September 13, 2025
St George’s Church (10am – 3pm)
Step inside this beautiful and historic Ramsgate church with a guided tour and learn about its fascinating past.
September 14, 2025
Ellington Park (11am – 3pm)
Join us in Ellington Park for a day celebrating the heritage of one of Ramsgate’s most beloved green spaces.
September 19 – 21, 2025
Heritage Harbours National Trail – Transformed by War
Ramsgate Tunnels is taking part in the Heritage Harbours National Trail – Transformed by War. This is another chance to see their Operation Dynamo exhibitions: The Ramsgate Story, The RNLI and the Standing With Giants panels along Marina Parade, as well as all their Tunnel Tours. See their website for more information:
www.ramsgatetunnels.org/whats-on-tours-events
September 20, 2025
St George’s Church (10am – 3pm)
If you missed it on September 13, here’s another chance to explore this historic church in the heart of Ramsgate.
September 20 – 21, 2025
Georgian Town House (private home, Open Saturday and Sunday, 11am – 4pm)
Take a rare opportunity to visit this elegant Georgian house with an Edwardian extension and beautiful garden. See the stunning restoration work, including a grand staircase, panelling, and hidden fireplaces. Don’t miss the secret staircase, discovered behind a wardrobe, complete with fragments of Regency wallpaper!
September 21, 2025
Montefiore Synagogue and Mausoleum (10am – 4pm)
Visit this unique and historically significant building, normally closed to the public, and explore its rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Spencer Square (11am – 6pm)
The historic Spencer Square will be celebrating its connections with Vincent van Gogh who lived and worked in Ramsgate back in 1876.
Festival of Sound
Ramsgate’s much-loved Festival of Sound is also running during the same period and will be joining in the Heritage Open Days fun with a special collaborative event on the first weekend. Expect creative performances and musical storytelling set in historic locations, blending culture and heritage in unforgettable ways.
Keep an eye out for the printed leaflet, which will highlight all the free venues you can access over the 10-day event, and for the monthly Events Calendar from Ramsgate Town Council. For full listings and up-to-date details, check the Visit Ramsgate website:
www.visitramsgate.co.uk and
www.visitthanet.co.uk.
We have so many fantastic events right here in our community, so mark your calendars and enjoy everything Heritage Open Days 2025 has to offer in Ramsgate and across the Isle!