From old railway stations to First World War exhibitions, residents can visit a host of remarkable places as part of this year’s Heritage Open Days.

Running from Thursday, September 12 until Sunday, September 15, people can visit these historic places for free.

The national annual event celebrates England’s architecture and culture by allowing access to interesting properties.

Places to visit in St Albans District include the Abbey Gateway, St Albans Cathedral, the medieval Clock Tower, St Albans Signal Box and Redbournbury Mill.

Walks, tours, lectures, exhibitions and activities that focus on architecture, culture and history are also being held.

Councillor Beric Read, portfolio holder for community engagement and localism for St Albans City and District Council, said: "There is a lot to do and see during this year’s Heritage Open Days.

"You can take advantage of free visits to historical buildings that are usually closed to the public or normally charge an entrance fee.

"There are also plenty of events and activities for you to enjoy that help bring our local heritage to life."

New this year is the opportunity to follow in the steps of Frank Salisbury, a Victorian portraitist of the Royal Family, who was born in Harpenden. The Harpenden and District Local History Society will be doing a series of walks and talks exploring the artist’s life and work.

There will also be a couple of talks about the history of the Mayoralty by the Mayor of St Albans City and District, Councillor Annie Brewster, which will take place at the Old Town Hall, on Saturday, 13 September at 12.30pm and 1.30pm.

The Mayor said: "There are many attractions to enjoy on Heritage Open Days, from walks around historic St Albans, to seeing places that normally the public cannot access, such as the Abbey Gateway."

For more details about activities in the area visit www.enjoystalbans.com/heritagedays

For more details about the Heritage Open Days as a national event visit http://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/