Accrington Gallery's interactive events for Heritage Day

The opportunities arise when it opens its doors as part of this national “Open Monument Day”.

The Accrington venue's special event, 'Routes, Networks and Connections', will take place on Sunday 15 September from 12pm-4pm.

The gallery offers people a community day full of exciting activities, workshops, tours and much more.

Admission is free, no tickets are required.

Visitors have the opportunity to discover why the Haworth Art Gallery on Manchester Road has been so valued for over 100 years.

Its connections extend from Hyndburn to the far corners of the world and this event will highlight those fascinating links through guided tours of the house, collections, artists' studios and grounds led by knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

Highlights include discovering US-designed company Tiffany's fascination with archaeological glass and the advances in chemistry that led to the remarkable iridescent effect, tracing a journey from Cyprus to New York.

Guests can meet Mr. Beach, the coachman, for a tour of the Motor House and Stables, now home to a vibrant group of artists and artisans.

Families are encouraged to participate through a variety of workshops and activities.

These include playing traditional games with the friends of Haworth Art Gallery, making up imaginative puppet stories and making giant soap bubbles on the front lawn.

Other activities include free family crafts inspired by Tiffany glass, free ukulele workshops, a raffle, open artist studios to browse, tours and talks throughout the day, exploring the gallery and food and drink from the Gallery Kitchen.

Cllr Kimberley Whitehead, Hyndburn Council’s Heritage Officer, said: “The Heritage Open Day at Haworth Art Gallery is a wonderful opportunity for families and individuals to learn about our rich local history and enjoy a day of creativity and learning.

“We are proud to support such a vibrant and inclusive event that brings our community together.

“We hope people can come with us to Haworth Art Gallery in Accrington for a memorable day out celebrating our heritage.”

Heritage Open Day is England's largest free history and culture festival, held every September, with several attractions across East Lancashire taking part in the event.