Some of Watford’s most historic buildings will open their doors from this Friday, giving residents and visitors the chance to discover more about the town’s past, its architecture and stories that have shaped its identity.

Watford Borough Council has revealed its listing for Heritage Open Days - a national event celebrating the history and culture of England.

As part of the annual event, thousands of volunteers across the country organise a wide range of activities and events that give people the chance to explore hidden gems and embrace new experiences, free of charge.

Watford Observer: The Pump HouseThe Pump House (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Starting on Friday at the Pump House Theatre, among the other buildings that will be open until September 17 are St Mary’s Church and the Old Free School.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “It is great that each year Watford’s heritage and culture is celebrated by these open days.

“They allow residents and visitors to explore some of the buildings across the town which give an insight into the Watford of the past.

Watford Observer: Holy Rood ChurchHoly Rood Church (Image: Watford Borough Council)

“I hope people find these days fascinating and are able to appreciate the importance of protecting our history.”

The full Heritage Open Days listing for Watford is as follows: Watford’s Heritage Open Days are as follows:

Friday, September 8

3:30pm - Tale of Two Tours, Pump House Theatre & Arts Trust Ltd, Local Board Road, WD17 2JP

Watford Observer: St Mary's ChurchSt Mary's Church (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Saturday, September 9

10am - 2pm, St Mary’s Church Tours, St Marys Church, Church Street WD18 0EG

10am - 5pm, St Michael and All Angels Church, Mildred Avenue WD18 7DY

11am - Tale of Two Tours, Pump House Theatre & Arts, Local Board Road WD17 2JP

Watford Observer: The Old Free SchoolThe Old Free School (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Sunday, September 10

11am - 12pm, Free School Watford, Office on the Hill Ltd, Old Free School WD18 0BX

Thursday, September 14

7:45pm - 10:30pm, Heritage Quiz! Mad Squirrel Watford, 3 King Street WD17 2EN

Friday, September 15

10am - Holy Rood Church, Holy Rood Rectory, Exchange Road WD18 0PJ

Watford Observer: The Mad Squirrel will host a Heritage QuizThe Mad Squirrel will host a Heritage Quiz (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Saturday, September 16

3pm - Holy Rood Church, Holy Rood Rectory, Exchange Road WD18 0PJ

Spaces are limited at some of the Open Days so you may have to book. For more information visit: www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/printable-area-lists/town/Watford/

Watford Observer: St Michael and All Angels ChurchSt Michael and All Angels Church (Image: Watford Borough Council)