A heritage day that gives visitors the chance to explore behind the scenes of the village created by chocolate-maker George Cadbury is turning ten.
Bournville Heritage Open Day, part of Birmingham Heritage Week, first took place back in 2016, with just a handful of venues opening to the public.
Since then, the event has grown and last year welcomed over 3,000 visitors who toured venues across Bournville; enjoying tours, exhibitions, activities and family fun.
This year organisers Bournville Village Trust, and the 19 historic venues all opening for free on Saturday 12th September 2026, are hoping it’ll be the most successful event to date.
Some of this year’s highlights will include a stunning concert hall in the heart of the Cadbury factory, a beautiful Tudor manor and a Serbian Orthodox Church with a spectacular interior.
Visitors will also be able to try sailing model boats, give crown green bowls a go and tour some of Bournville’s oldest buildings. Tours of Cadbury archives and Bournville’s alms-houses will also be available to pre-book before the event.
Daniel Callicott, Heritage Manager at Bournville Village Trust, said: “Bournville Heritage Open Day is a unique opportunity to explore historic buildings and places that aren’t usually open to the public. And this year is extra special as it’s our 10th anniversary!
“Whether you want to peek behind the scenes of amazing historic buildings, enjoy fascinating exhibitions or have a go at fun activities, there really will be something for everyone so come along!”
Bournville Heritage Open Day would not be possible without dozens of volunteers, local organisations and participating venues. You can see all participating venues at www.bvt.org.uk
The event will run from 10am-4pm and a map is available to download from the website above to guide visitors around the 19 different venues opening.
Tours of the alms-houses, Cadbury Archive and Cadbury World tickets are by pre-booked tour only. Free tickets will be available via www.bvt.org.uk/your-neighbourhood/bournville-heritage-open-day-2026/ from Tuesday 25th August 2026 at 5.30pm.
Bournville Village Trust is one of the Midlands’ longest-serving independent charitable trusts. It works within more than a dozen diverse communities in south and central Birmingham and Telford and aims to create and sustain communities where people can thrive.
It was founded by social reformer and chocolate maker George Cadbury in 1900 and provides services to 8,000 homes and 25,000 people.
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