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We all love an opportunity to snoop around places we wouldn't usually get access to - and now members of the public can do just that, thanks to Heritage Open Days 2010. The scheme, which runs from 9-12 September, allows visitors free access to interesting properties in England that either don't normally open or generally charge an entrance fee.

A number of buildings, including follies, churches, factories, tunnels, windmills and private homes will open their doors, and there are also guided walks, concerts, re-enactments, trails and children's activities to get involved in. 

Volunteers such as property owners, estate managers and tourism managers offer their time and services free of charge to make the scheme a success. This celebration of architecture and culture is coordinated by English Heritage, and attracted over one million visitors last year. 

Visitors are told to expect a historical and cultural experience that will offer them access to everything from Buddhist temples and Masonic lodges to farms, theatres and factories.

The project began in 1994 as England's contribution to European Heritage days and there are also similar projects in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

If you're interested in the architecture and experiences available from Heritage Open Days go to www.heritageopendays.org.uk to find out more.

More on Directgov

• Places to visit with your children (parents section)

Further information

• Heritage Open Days 2010 (England) Opens new window

• Doors Open Days (Scotland) Opens new window

• Open Doors 2010 (Wales) Opens new window

• European Heritage Open Days (Northern Ireland) Opens new window