HISTORIC attractions across Colchester will open for free next month.

Hundreds of visitors are expected to descend on the town on the weekend of September 8, 9, 10 and 11 to make the most of National Heritage Open Days.

The scheme, which runs across the UK, allows people to visit historic sites that wouldn’t normally be open or they would usually have to pay for.

Sites in Colchester which will be taking part include Colchester Castle, the town hall and St John’s Abbey Gatehouse, in St John’s Green.

There will also be costumed tours of Colchester with guides dressing up to show people round the main sights.

Tim Young, (Lab), Colchester councillor responsible for tourism and culture, said people should make the most of the weekend, which only runs once a year.

He said: “This is an opportunity for residents and visitors to see not only our jewels in the crown but also some of the more unusual treasures around the borough.

“I hope people will take the opportunity to go and view all the extraordinary things to do with our own history and heritage.”

Some of the more unusual places which will be open across the weekend in Colchester include the remains of Colchester’s Roman Theatre, in Maidenburgh Street, 15th century Sparlings Solicitors building, in West Stockwell Street, and church St Leonard at the Hythe.

Mr Young said it would not just be residents who took advantage of the days.

He said: “I think people who are interested in local history do come to Colchester.

“It’s obviously Britain’s oldest recorded town and people especially come during these days because they know they will get to see places that aren’t usually open and that’s what they are often really interested in.”

The life of William Gilberd will also be celebrated throughout the weekend.

People will be able to find out more about the Colcestrian, who is famous for inventing electricity, with buildings throughout Trinity Street open.

They include shop Fat Face and Holy Trinity Church, where there is a memorial to the former Royal doctor.

The Colchester Bookshop, in Trinity Street, will also be open as Mr Gilberd lived there and people will be able to try out some experiments in the building.

Activities will be held to celebrate the Tudor scientist’s theories and discoveries across Trinity Street.

National Heritage Open Days will run in Colchester from Thursday, September 8 to Sunday, September 11.

Different activities and venues will be open on different dates and times.

For more information go to heritageopendays.org.uk