Archbishop to Launch Lydiard’s Heritage Open Days

The Archbishop of Canterbury will cut the ribbon to officially announce the start of Heritage Open days, when he visits Lydiard Park this September.

Justin Welby will visit Lydiard Park on Saturday 13th September as part of a three-day visit to the Diocese of Bristol. 

Archbishop Welby will be at the historic stately home after having met for breakfast and prayer with clergy and church leaders from Swindon Churches Together. 

Heritage Open Days is a national annual event celebrating England’s architecture and culture by allowing visitors free access to interesting properties that are either not usually open, or would normally charge an entrance fee.

Archbishop Welby will also be starting a sponsored walk and bike ride outside St Mary’s Church at 10am as part of the Ride+Stride National Churches Trust initiative in which people from all over the country walk or cycle between churches, exploring and enjoying the countryside from Cornwall to Northumberland.

The money they raise helps to preserve some of Britain’s 47,000 churches, chapels and meeting houses which are at risk of falling into serious disrepair.

The Bishop of Swindon, the Rt Rev Dr Lee Rayfield said: “Everyone across the Diocese is excited about the forthcoming visit of Archbishop Justin Welby and I know from conversations with him that he is really looking forward to meeting people in our local churches and communities. This event will be an excellent opportunity for just that, as well as celebrating some of our incredible local heritage and history.”

Anyone wishing to take part in the Ride+Stride can visit: www.wiltshirehistoricchurchestrust.org.uk for more information or call 01672 514301.