Local attractions will throw their doors open to the public on Saturday September 9 for the annual Doors Open Day event in Aberdeen.
This year will be bigger than ever before with a bumper number of buildings opening their doors and more events than ever before.
As the main sponsor of this hugely-popular event, the University of Aberdeen is also the largest contributor of buildings this year with highlights including the new Rowett Institute of Health and Nutrition and Zoology teaching labs, the Confucius Institute and King’s Museum.
Doors Open Day is the annual opportunity to explore Aberdeen’s hidden architectural heritage. In 2017 there will be a record 48 buildings taking part, including 12 new for this year.
Taking part for the first time will be the Donside Hydro Plant, St Ninian’s Episcopal Church, Sue Ryder Care Village in Kincorth, Adventure Aberdeen, Aberdeen treasure Hub, the Confucius Institute, Albyn School, Rubislaw Church and Church Centre, CFINE, the Unitarian Church and Ebury House.
Many old favourites of Doors Open Day will also be open for people to explore, such as the Sheriff Court and Robert Gordon’s College.
Many buildings will be hosting family friendly events. The Fire Station will be welcoming hundreds of visitors to explore the fire appliances and learn CPR. The Institute of Medical Science will have a day of hands-on science and fun for all the family. There will be a special local history fair in the Townhouse on Broad Street, as part of the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.
Chris Croly, Local Area Coordinator for Aberdeen Doors Open Day, said: “It’s great to see so many buildings participating this year. Doors Open Day remains one of the most popular days in Aberdeen which really does offer something for everyone.
“The main day is Saturday but the Synagogue and the Carmelite Hotel will be open on Sunday September 10and at the Carmelite there is a chance to hear about archaeological excavations that took place in Aberdeen Green from archaeologist Ali Cameron. This year I would like to thank our sponsors at Aberdeen City Council.”
As always a free bus will be available on Doors Open Day which will leave from the front of the Sheriff Court at regular intervals and stopping at key sites round the city.
The full list of buildings open and details of what exciting activities they have on is available to download at:www.facebook.com/aberdeendoorsopenday and www.abdn.ac.uk/engage/doorsopenday