25 fabulous free events that you can attend in September 2026

Coventry Cathedral, Trevor Ray Hart for Heritage Open DaysDiscover historic sites at Heritage Open Days

Nationwide, 11-20 September

Explore thousands of historic buildings, landmarks and hidden spaces across the UK, many of which are rarely open to the public, as part of Heritage Open Days. Held every September, this free event is a fantastic opportunity to uncover local history, admire remarkable architecture and discover the stories behind some of the country's most fascinating places, including Keats House and Eltham Palace in London, and the Museum of Transport and Damhouse Historical Manor House in Greater Manchester, as well as many more.

Alongside access to participating venues, there's a packed programme of guided walks, expert talks, family activities and hands-on workshops. Check your local Heritage Open Days listings before you visit, as some events require booking.

PexelsJoin the Great British Beach Clean

Nationwide, 18-27 September

Every year, an estimated 11 million tonnes of plastic enter the world's oceans, threatening marine wildlife, damaging fragile ecosystems and polluting our coastlines. The Great British Beach Clean is the Marine Conservation Society's annual citizen science event, encouraging volunteers to litter-pick their local beach and record everything they find. In 2025, 6,482 volunteers took part, collecting 232,229 pieces of litter across 97 miles of coastline and filling 1,494 bags – providing vital data to help tackle marine pollution.

Joining a beach clean is a simple yet rewarding way to protect our coastlines, while giving children a hands-on introduction to marine conservation. With hundreds of organised events taking place across the UK each year, the Marine Conservation Society makes it easy to get involved and help care for our seas.

Getty ImagesDiscover London's historic waterway at Totally Thames

London, 1-30 September

Celebrate the mighty River Thames, which has shaped London’s history, culture and identity for centuries, at this month-long festival. Totally Thames returns this September with an exciting programme of art and heritage events, active adventures and environmental initiatives taking place along the capital’s iconic waterway.

Throughout the festival, enjoy a diverse line-up of experiences, from live music and art exhibitions to guided walks, performances and hands-on workshops. While some events require tickets, there are also plenty of free activities to explore, making it the perfect opportunity to discover the Thames in a whole new way.

Highlights not to miss include the Classic Boat Festival at St Katharine Docks on 12 and 13 September, showcasing beautifully restored historic vessels, and the Great River Race on 12 September, a spectacular 21-mile rowing challenge along the Thames.

Henry Moore, Large Reclining Figure, 1983-84. © Henry Moore Foundation, Photo: Ines Stuart-DavidsonEnjoy art exhibitions at Kew Gardens

Set across the iconic landscapes and world-renowned botanical collections of Kew Gardens, Henry Moore: Monumental Nature brings art and nature together on an extraordinary scale, blurring the boundaries between sculpture and living form.

Across the Gardens, interact with 30 monumental sculptures that are placed in dialogue with Kew’s trees and historic landscapes, revealing how sculpture can both respond to, and reshape, the space it inhabits. In addition, explore more than 90 of Moore’s smaller-scale works including sculpture, drawings, models and sketchbooks in the accompanying indoor exhibition at the Shirley Sherwood Gallery on-site.

Also in the Shirley Sherwood Gallery, discover botanical art on an extraordinary scale with Monumental Botanical Art. Featuring works from the renowned Shirley Sherwood Collection, this exhibition showcases striking artworks that reveal the intricate beauty and hidden details of plants, from Úrsula Romero’s iconic ‘leafscapes’ to Lucy T. Smith’s giant waterlily painting.

Both exhibitions are include with entry to the Gardens. Boundless members get unlimited access to Kew Gardens and Kew Wakehurst. Members also get 50% off entry for an additional adult, free entry for up to five children and a 10% discount in the Kew shop, both online and in store.

Isle of Wight Classic Motor ShowAdmire classic cars at the Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show

Isle of Wight, 12 & 13 September

Whether you're a lifelong classic car enthusiast or simply love a dose of nostalgia, the annual Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show is well worth a visit. This popular two-day event brings together hundreds of beautifully restored vintage, classic and rare vehicles from across the UK, offering a fascinating journey through motoring history.

Taking place at Newport Quay on 12 September and Ryde Esplanade on 13 September, this lively event is free for spectators. If you have a vehicle you’d like to display, it costs £9 to take part.

Boundless offer: Travelling to the Isle of Wight? Boundless members can save 20% off foot-passenger fares and 15% off car and motorbike fares on Wightlink ferries.

Join the Boundless Classic Vehicle Group

If you have a passion for classic vehicles, the Boundless Classic Vehicle Group (CVG) is a great place to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Whether you own a vintage car or simply admire them, you’re welcome to join in our tours, displays and events – ownership not required, just enthusiasm!

Getty ImagesSee London in a new light at Open House Festival 2026

London 12-20 September

Step back in time at the Open House Festival, London’s largest annual celebration of architecture, and discover the stories behind the buildings that shape the capital. Taking place across all 33 boroughs, the festival opens the doors to hundreds of fascinating spaces, many of which are rarely accessible to the public.

From iconic landmarks to hidden architectural gems, explore London’s rich heritage, uncover the history behind remarkable buildings and meet the people and communities that bring them to life. The festival offers free admission to the vast majority of participating buildings and walking events – see this year’s programme for the full schedule.

Getty ImagesSavour the South West at South Glos Food & Drink Festival

Bristol, 12 & 13 September

Set against the scenic lawns of Bristol & Bath Science Park, this buzzing festival celebrates the South West's outstanding food and drink scene. Browse artisan stalls packed with locally made treats, tuck into freshly prepared street food, sample regional beers, ciders and spirits, and discover unique products from independent producers. Throughout the day, enjoy a packed programme of live music, family-friendly entertainment and activities that make it a great day out for all ages.

Entry is free, but you'll need to reserve your place by booking a timed entry slot in advance. Register for your preferred time slot here.

Getty ImagesExperience Regency Bath at the Jane Austen Festival

Bath, 11-20 September

Immerse yourself in the world of Jane Austen at Bath's much-loved annual Jane Austen Festival, a 10-day celebration of Regency life, literature and Georgian elegance. The festival's iconic Grand Regency Costumed Promenade is a spectacular highlight, with hundreds of participants dressed in authentic Regency costumes processing through Bath's historic streets – and you're welcome to join in if you fancy donning period dress yourself.

The packed programme includes guided walking tours, engaging talks, theatrical performances, classical concerts, Regency dance classes, workshops and themed social events. Set against the city's beautiful Georgian architecture and the very streets that inspired Austen's novels, it's a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the world of one of Britain's best-loved authors.

UnsplashWalk with a Warden

WWT Llanelli, 19 September

Embrace the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness with September’s Walk with a Warden at WWT Llanelli. This monthly guided walk is a great way to explore the wetlands alongside an expert, discovering the seasonal wildlife highlights and hidden habitats of the reserve.

On this month’s walk, experience the changing seasons at WWT Llanelli as you delve into the fascinating (and slightly bizarre!) world of fungi and learn how the ripening berries and fruits found across the wetlands provide essential food sources for wildlife preparing for the colder months ahead.

For more walking inspiration, have a read of our pick of the best autumn walks.

Entry is included with admission, and booking is required. Visit the WWT Llanelli website for the latest information and ticket prices. As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest.

Getty ImagesStep back in time at St Fagans Food Festival

St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff, 12-13 September

St Fagans National Museum of History near Cardiff is one of Wales’ most popular free attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s past. This weekend, it hosts the St Fagans Food Festival, celebrating Welsh food, craft and culture in and around its historical buildings. Explore more than 80 stalls showcasing local produce, artisan treats, handmade crafts and unique gifts, alongside live music and family-friendly activities.

Think you know your onions? The festival is also hosting the National Vegetable Society Championships, showcasing the incredible growing skills behind prize-winning produce.

Entry to the museum and festival is free, although parking charges apply.

UnsplashSpark your curiosity at the British Science Festival

Southampton, 16-20 September

Get your neurons firing at Europe’s longest-running science festival, which heads to Southampton this September for five inspiring days of discovery, debate and innovation.

Designed for adults aged 16+, the British Science Festival brings together leading scientists, engineers and technologists for a fascinating programme of talks, interactive sessions and hands-on experiences. Explore the latest breakthroughs, ask questions, challenge ideas and discover the science shaping our world, with sessions exploring topics including the future of AI, surgical advances, the circular economy and the mysteries of deep-sea sharks.

The festival is completely free to attend, but booking is recommended as popular events are expected to fill up quickly.

Getty ImagesSee comedian Joe Lycett's first exhibition: EVERY THING MUST GO

Birmingham, until 27 February 2027

Discover a different side to comedian Joe Lycett in EVERY THING MUST GO, his first major solo exhibition at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. Inspired by objects from the museum's collection, this free exhibition features dozens of previously unseen works exploring nostalgia, loss and cultural change. From extinct animals and demolished landmarks to discontinued chocolate bars, Lycett's playful, tongue-in-cheek style transforms everyday memories into thought-provoking art in a colourful display he describes as a "neon graveyard".

While you're there, don't miss Working Class Hero, a celebration of Birmingham legend Ozzy Osbourne's remarkable journey from Aston to global rock icon. The exhibition features Grammy Awards, Hall of Fame honours, platinum and gold discs, rare photographs and video footage charting his extraordinary career and is on until 18 January.

See great art for less with National Arts Pass

The National Art Pass gives Boundless Plus members free or discounted entry to hundreds of museums and galleries, historic places across the UK, including 50% off major exhibitions, a subscription to Art Quarterly magazine and Art in your inbox e-newsletters. Learn more about how and where you can use your National Arts Pass in our guide.

UnsplashShow off your classic car at Hinckley Classic Motor Show

Leicestershire, 20 September

Celebrating its 15th year, Hinckley Classic Motor Show is one of the UK’s biggest gatherings of vintage and heritage vehicles, bringing together hundreds of beautifully restored cars, motorcycles and classic machines. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or simply love the nostalgia of motoring history, it’s a fantastic day out for all ages.

Alongside the impressive vehicle displays, enjoy live music, family-friendly entertainment and a tempting selection of food stalls throughout the day. Last year, more than 800 proud owners showcased their vehicles, and visitor entry is completely free. Fancy displaying your own classic car? Exhibitor entry is free too, making it the perfect opportunity to share your pride and joy with fellow enthusiasts.

Getty ImagesWatch Blackpool Illuminations big switch-on

Blackpool, 4 September until January 2027

Billed as the “biggest, brightest night” in Blackpool’s event calendar, marvel as the seaside resort is transformed into a dazzling display of light and colour at the annual switch-on of the world-famous Blackpool Illuminations. Stretching for an incredible six miles, more than a million twinkly bulbs shine along the famous Promenade, lighting up the coast with spectacular installations, illuminated tableaux and huge displays.

The Switch-on is free to attend and can be watched anywhere along the shore, but if you’d like to try your luck getting a free ticket to the party with live music acts, including Five and The Feeling, there’s a ticketed ballot with up to 20,000 free tickets up for grabs.

Getty ImagesGreet returning geese at Goosefest

WWT, Martin Mere, Lancashire, 5 September -18 October

Every autumn, tens of thousands of pink-footed geese make their spectacular return from Greenland and Iceland to Lancashire, creating one of the UK's most impressive wildlife spectacles.

Whether you're a keen birdwatcher, nature lover or looking for an inspiring family day out, GooseFest celebrates this remarkable migration with a packed programme of activities. Join expert-led walks and talks, enjoy hands-on workshops, take part in a family-friendly trail, and experience close-up encounters with these incredible birds.

Entry to Goosefest is included with admission, though booking is required. Visit WWT Martin Mere for the latest info and ticket prices.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Getty ImagesYork Food and Drink Festival

York, 18-27 September

York Food and Drink Festival brings the historic city centre to life with a delicious celebration of Yorkshire’s finest food and drink from 18–27 September. Discover local producers, artisan makers and regional flavours, with a packed programme of tastings, cookery demonstrations, workshops and talks.

New for 2026, the St Sampson’s Centre will host an expanded programme of demonstrations, evening events, tastings and special experiences. Popular Food and Drink Trails also return, inviting visitors to explore York’s independent cafés, restaurants, bars and food producers while discovering the city’s culinary gems.

Newcastle’s Dragon Boat raceCheer on boats in Newcastle’s Dragon Boat race

Newcastle, 26 September

Head to Newcastle for a spectacular celebration of racing and riverside entertainment, as teams of paddlers take to the River Tyne in colourful, decorated dragon boats for the annual Newcastle Dragon Boat Race. Cheer on crews as they battle it out in thrilling, fast-paced races, with plenty of excitement both on and off the water.

This family-friendly event makes for a brilliant day out, with food stalls, live music and activities adding to the festival atmosphere. After watching the action on the river, soak up the lively surroundings and enjoy a fun-filled day by Newcastle’s waterfront.

Getty ImagesCelebrate the sea, ships and stories at Belfast Maritime Festival

Belfast, 5 & 6 September

Explore Belfast’s rich maritime heritage as the famous Maritime Mile becomes a hive of activity during the Belfast Maritime Festival, transforming the waterfront and Titanic Quarter into a spectacular celebration of the city’s enduring connection to the sea.

The free festival brings together history, entertainment and interactive experiences, with live music, circus performances, science sessions, rides and hands-on activities to enjoy. Discover themed zones showcasing everything from seafaring traditions to innovative shipbuilding, while uncovering the stories and people that have shaped Belfast’s maritime past.

Getty ImagesEuropean Heritage Open Days

Sites across Northern Ireland, 12-13 September

Discover Northern Ireland’s fascinating history and heritage during European Heritage Open Days. This annual free event offers the rare chance to explore hundreds of historic buildings, cultural landmarks and hidden places across the country, many of which are not usually open to the public.

From castles and country houses to museums, churches, heritage attractions and community-led projects, EHOD 2026 celebrates Northern Ireland’s diverse heritage. This year’s theme, Heritage at Risk: Revive, Resist, Reimagine, shines a spotlight on the importance of protecting and preserving these special places. Enjoy guided tours, fascinating talks, living-history re-enactments, exhibitions, workshops and family-friendly activities, while discovering the stories behind the buildings and communities working to safeguard them for future generations.

Getty ImagesTaste delicious food and drink at Loch Lomond Food & Drink Festival

Balloch, 5 & 6 September

Loch Lomond’s breathtaking shores are spectacular whatever the season, but food lovers should plan a visit around the annual Loch Lomond Food and Drink Festival, returning in 2026 for a delicious celebration of Scotland’s finest flavours.

Taking place over a two-day weekend, this free festival brings together artisan producers, local makers and talented chefs for a feast of food, drink and entertainment. Browse a tempting selection of market stalls, watch live cookery demonstrations from renowned chefs including Tony Singh, MasterChef’s Rohan Wadke and author Suki Pantal, sample delicious regional produce, and enjoy a packed programme of activities, from free cocktail and mocktail masterclasses to family-friendly fun.

Getty ImagesDiscover secret places at Doors Open Days Festival

Various sites across Scotland, 5-27 September

Scotland’s largest free celebration of heritage, Doors Open Days, returns this September, offering the chance to step inside some of the country’s most fascinating buildings, historic sites and hidden places, many of which are not usually open to the public.

From behind-the-scenes tours and guided walks to exhibitions, performances and hands-on activities, Doors Open Days is a fun and immersive way to learn more about Scotland’s rich heritage. With more than 1,000 locations taking part, this free event invites visitors to explore everything from grand historic landmarks and architectural masterpieces to community spaces and cultural venues. Highlights not to miss include General Register House in Edinburgh, Monteath Mausoleum and Govanhill Baths in Glasgow, and Paxton House in the Scottish Borders.

Getty ImagesIn your defence - True stories of life and law

Online, 15 September

Discover the hidden human stories behind the British legal system in this fascinating online talk with Sunday Times bestselling author and former criminal and family barrister Sarah Langford. Whether you're interested in the justice system or simply enjoy compelling real-life stories, this thought-provoking event offers a unique glimpse inside the courtroom.

Drawing on her book In Your Defence, Sarah shares powerful true-life cases from her decade in the courtroom, offering a rare insight into how the law shapes ordinary lives. From family disputes to criminal cases, these moving stories reveal the compassion, complexity and challenges that exist beyond the headlines, showing the people behind the legal process.

Boundless members who stay until the end of the session will also have the chance to win a copy of Sarah Langford's book, In Your Defence.

Getty ImagesLearn about local wildlife

Online, 17 September

The London Natural History Society’s Virtual Talks series brings together expert speakers to explore a wide range of natural history topics, from wildlife and conservation to ecology and species identification.

In this engaging online talk, urban naturalist and writer Amanda Tuke reveals the remarkable wildlife that thrives in Britain's towns and cities, drawing on stories from her book Wild Pavements: Exploring Britain's Cities with an Urban Naturalist. Discover the rich biodiversity found in unexpected places and gain a fresh perspective on urban nature. If you can't join live, previous talks are available to watch on YouTube.

Getty ImagesPower of Attorney

Online, 22 September

Planning for the future can give you and your loved ones valuable peace of mind. In this practical online talk, qualified solicitor Will Norton explains everything you need to know about Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) in England and Wales, helping you make informed decisions about your future.

Discover what an LPA is, why it's important and how it can ensure your wishes are respected if you're ever unable to make decisions yourself. You'll learn about the two types of LPA – property and financial affairs, and health and welfare – including what they cover and when they can be used.

Will also guides you through the process of creating and registering an LPA, offering practical advice on choosing attorneys, completing the paperwork and avoiding common pitfalls. The session also explores how LPAs work in everyday situations, from managing finances to making healthcare decisions, while explaining the legal responsibilities and safeguards that help protect everyone involved.

Getty ImagesTitanic: Maiden Voyage, Myths and Mailsacks

Online, 29 September

The sinking of the RMS Titanic remains one of history’s most famous maritime disasters. While the story of the “unsinkable” ship striking an iceberg on her maiden voyage is well known, the events surrounding the tragedy reveal a far richer tale of courage, loss and remarkable coincidences.

Step aboard for a compelling journey through one of history’s most iconic shipwrecks with historian Andy Skinner in this fascinating online talk into the world of the Titanic, uncovering the lesser-known stories behind the disaster and the people whose lives were changed forever and the extraordinary moments that shaped the ship’s enduring legacy more than a century later. Boundless members can stay tuned for the chance to win a special prize!