During Birmingham Heritage Week historical sites open their doors to the public often for free. It's an opportunity to gain access to places you wouldn't usually be allowed to go, experience walking tours, or simply enjoy the city's heritage attractions. I always jump at the chance to tick a few more places off my travel list during Heritage Open Days and I was eager to go and see the Winterbourne House and Botanical Gardens.
Winterbourne House is a historic Edwardian house built in 1903 for John Nettleford, a pioneer of early housing reform in Birmingham, and and Margaret Nettlefold. The interior style followed the Arts and Crafts movement of the time by including local craftsmanship throughout the home. Winterbourne House is surrounded by 7 acres of land and a Grade II botanical garden. Designed by Margaret Nettlefold, the gardens now contain over 6000 different plant species.
The Carnivorous Plant collection was the largest I've ever seen. Lush vegetation was packed into every inch of the greenhouse and identifying each plant put my horticultural knowledge to the test.
As well as the house and the botanical gardens to explore, there's also a printing press onsite housing several 19th century printing presses. Visit on a Friday and there will be volunteers to show you how the printing press works.
Winterbourne House and Botanical Gardens is usually £6 to enter (and worth every penny) but open to the public for free on specific days during Birmingham Heritage Week. It's absolutely worth a visit - even if you have to travel - to see the stunning gardens and greenhouses.