Spectacular churches, a family-friendly farm and the residence of Paisley’s most famous poet are just a few of the intriguing locations visitors can experience as part of Renfrewshire’s Doors Open Days.
This year’s events will see participating venues open their doors for the chance to visit them in-person or through online activity on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September.
Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free festival celebrating heritage and the built environment, as well as the chance to learn more about buildings old and new.
A number of Renfrewshire locations will be open to the public across the weekend, many with kids’ activities planned to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Buildings offering people the chance to visit and delve deeper into their history include the striking Paisley Methodist Central Hall, Tannahill’s Cottage – where Paisley poet Robert Tannahill lived from early childhood until his death in 1810 – and Bishopton Parish Church.
Great outdoor spaces also taking part in Renfrewshire’s Doors Open Days weekend include the Lamont Farm Project in Erskine, Castle Semple Collegiate Church in Lochwinnoch and Brediland Allotments Association in Paisley, as well as the new Scope indoor art space on Paisley’s Causeyside Street, showcasing work by local creatives.
Those out exploring around Paisley can also enjoy a fantastic walking tour detailing the town’s role in the Scottish Radical War of 1820 and key landmarks by downloading the Paisley Radicals: Catalysts for Change walking tour app. Find out more at https://paisley.is/discover/
Meanwhile, amazing locations being showcased online include The John Neilson Institute and The Heritage Centre in Paisley and Houston and Killellan Kirk in Houston.
A programme of online activity has also been organised by Paisley Townscape Heritage and Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme 2 (TH.CARS2), including fantastic films and activities showcasing Paisley’s culture and heritage.
Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron is encouraging people to enjoy Renfrewshire’s Doors Open Days activity in-person and online, where available.
Provost Cameron said: “We are extremely fortunate to have so many spectacular, historic buildings in Renfrewshire, all with their own unique and fascinating stories to tell.
“It’s great that venues in the area will be able to open their doors and allow either in-person visits or the chance to dive into their history with some fun learning online.
“I hope people of all ages get involved in the brilliant range of activities across the weekend and take pride in the wealth of heritage and culture we have here in Renfrewshire.”
Doors Open Days is coordinated nationally by the Scottish Civic Trust and is part of European Heritage Days supported by Historic Environment Scotland.
The full list of participating in-person and online venues in Renfrewshire can be viewed online at https://paisley.is/featured_