Published Monday, 5th September 2016
Visitors will get the chance to have a behind-the-scenes view of Reigate & Banstead's Town Hall this weekend (Saturday 10 September) as part of this year's Heritage Open Days.
This year, as well as exploring the beautiful building with its stunning architecture, guests will be able to enjoy seeing old police cars, fire engines and listen to the Dixieland Stompers while having a cup of tea with the Mayor in his Parlour!
"Whether you're fascinated by architecture or history or just curious to take a look inside your local town hall, it is well worth a visit," says Cllr David Powell, Mayor of Reigate & Banstead. "The building originally housed the fire and police stations and law courts. It boasts some wonderfully ornate Art Nouveau features and beautiful stained glass windows. This year we have tried to make it even more special by inviting old police cars and the local fire brigade to come along too so guests can see what it would have been like 100 years ago."
One of the rooms will feature an exhibition commemorating World War I with displays about the Battle of Jutland, the Battle of the Somme and the Arc Royal.
Another room will feature many displays from local history including the fire brigade, local caves, our twin towns and information about local history walks around the borough.
Reigate Priory Museum is kindly helping again and providing displays celebrating 90 years of Queen Elizabeth II which will be shown in the Old Council Chamber where there will also be a Heritage Tea Room with delicious cakes and light refreshments on sale. All the proceeds will be donated to the Mayor’s charities: the Children’s Trust and the Surrey Care Trust.
Staff from Reigate Priory Museum and other local historians will be on hand to answer visitors' questions during the day.
Young visitors can enjoy many activities which complement the displays including making their own crowns and completing the Town Hall quiz and activity pack.
Located on Castlefield Road, Reigate, RH2 0SH, the Town Hall will be open from 11am-3pm on Saturday 10 September. Parking on site will be free for visitors and it's only a very short walk from Reigate station.
The Town Hall is one of 25 venues to be explored across the borough. Others include Reigate Heath Windmill Church, Barons Cave, St. Matthew’s Church and Tadworth Court Mansion. There are also walks, talks and activities taking place over Heritage Open Days weekend.
To find out what's on near you for this year's Heritage Open Days, visit the Heritage Open Days website.