Step into local history this September

History and culture will be brought to life with over these dates 300 property openings as host of historic buildings will open their doors to the public.

Locations in the Lisburn area opening for the weekend include Lisburn Cathedral and Middle Church in Ballinderry.

With all events free of charge and many family friendly, everyone can take the opportunity to step back in time.

Communities Minister Paul Givan MLA has invited the Lisburn public to enjoy these events, he said: “Organised by my Department, it is very apt that this year’s theme across Europe is ‘Heritage Communities’. Nurturing such communities is vital if we are to ensure that our heritage is well protected into the future and able to support community cohesion and a strong economy.”

There has been a Christian Church on the site of Lisburn Cathedral for over 350 years. The first was destroyed in a rebellion in 1641, the second in a fire in 1707.

The current building (the third on the site) began to be built in 1708 and was completed in 1719. Begun in 1664 and consecrated in 1668 the Middle Church is one of the finest examples of a Plantation Church in Ulster.

Sometimes known as a Barn Church because of its simplicity, it remains in its original form with the pews and the pulpit dating from 1668.