The volunteers at Whitchurch Museum and Archives have organised free access to three sites in Whitchurch for Heritage Open Days 2017.

This Friday and Saturday between 11am and 4pm it will be possible to visit the Primitive Methodist Chapel on Castle Hill, now the North Shropshire Masonic Rooms, which is an excellent opportunity to view the 15 stained glass windows which are now only visible from inside this building which was constructed in 1866.

It was built in the Gothic style and still retains some original pews, balcony and a working pipe rack organ. It will be possible to visit the ground floor and also to view the museum of the two Lodges based there.

n St Alkmund’s Church will also be open where it will be possible to view 19th century parish registers or climb the many steps to the top of the church tower. The climb will take you past the bell ringing room and allow a view of the Joyce’s clock mechanism and the church bells before reaching the roof. The top of the tower holds a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside.

Both venues have wheelchair accesses and will be serving refreshments.

n On Saturday, St John’s Methodist Church will also be open between 10am and 6pm and is an ideal chance to view the interior of this church, opened in 1879. It includes two First World War memorial plaques, one of which came from Castle Hill Methodist Church when it closed. There will be an exhibition detailing the history of the building, the stained glass windows and those commemorated on the First World War plaques.

The only visit which requires pre-booking is the guided climb up the church tower to secure your place on the tour. It is only suitable for those over 10 years of age who are relatively fit and able, as the stone spiral steps are narrow and steep.

To pre-book the climb up St Alkmund’s tower please contact Whitchurch Heritage Centre on 01948 664577 or email info@whitchurch-heritage.co.uk