As part of the Open House Festival 2023, venues in Hounslow will host free events on Friday and Saturday, 15 -16 September, to showcase the rich culture and diverse architecture and heritage.
Published: Wednesday, 13th September 2023
From 6 to 17 September, all boroughs in London are taking part in the annual festival, organised by the charity Open City, celebrating London’s buildings, architecture and neighbourhoods. All venues are open with free activities for everyone to attend.
In this two-week festival, 14 venues located in Brentford, Chiswick, Hounslow and Isleworth are open to public with over 30 activities being held. It’s free for residents and visitors to explore and learn the interesting stories behind the venues.
Councillor Shivraj Grewal, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Culture, said:
“Hounslow is made up of distinctive neighbourhoods and has always been proud of its vibrant culture and unique architecture and buildings. From historic houses such as Boston Manor House, cultural venues to public halls from the Victorian era plus rivers and canals, nature reserves and bustling town centres, the borough has many exciting venues for residents and visitors to visit and explore.
“As we are in the last week of the Open House Festival, I encourage residents and visitors to take part in these free activities and discover the stories of our buildings and people, either on foot, by bike or on public transport.”
For the first time, Hounslow House and Hounslow Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre will welcome the public to visit with guided tours.
The architect and main developer of Hounslow House will lead three tours on Friday, 15 September, 9.45am – 1.30pm, telling the story of Hounslow House’s construction and the Council’s commitment to sustainability. The tour will also bring visitors to areas not normally open to the public, including the sixth floor with its expansive views across London.
The Hounslow Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre will open its doors on Saturday, 16 September between 11am and 3pm for drop-in guided tours. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to have a closer look at prominent historical features within the Mosque, including the prayer chamber (Mihraab) and pulpit (Mimbar).
Hounslow Heath Infant and Nursery School in Hounslow West will also open to the public on Saturday, 10am - 2pm. Visitors can find a specially designed playscape for children called ‘Adobe Village’ which are a set of dome shaped constructions built with environmentally friendly materials and sound proofing properties.
Bookings are required to attend the venues and visitors must observe venue protocols when visiting religious venues. Details of activities that are available can be found on Open House London Hounslow website
