Explore the centre’s hidden heritage

We’re proud to open our doors once again for Heritage Open Day this Sunday, 11th September.

Heritage Open Days is "England’s favourite heritage festival". Every September some 40,000 volunteers across England organise 5,000 events to celebrate our fantastic history, architecture and culture. It's your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.

So where do we fit in? Well, the Rising Sun Arts Centre is a Grade II listed building, originally designed and built by architect Alfred Waterhouse for his wife as a Temperance House. Fast-forward some 138 years and it’s now the vibrant and unique art centre you know and love.

But a lot happened in between! So join us as we delve into the Rising Sun's history through an art exhibition of work created for and about the centre, and a guide to the building's intriguing past. Our cafe will be open with homemade refreshments and it promises to be a great opportunity to explore The Rising Sun and all it has to offer.