HUNDREDS of people took the opportunity to visit properties taking part in Open Doors in Monmouth at the weekend. Many had made special journeys to the town after details was spread online by Cadw, English Heritage and other websites.

The event, European Heritage Days coordinated by Cadw, the Welsh historic buildings organisation, was organised by Monmouth Civic Society. It used to be held every year, but this is the first year that Monmouth has moved to holding it every other year.

One of the most popular venues, as in past years, was Monnow Bridge Gatehouse, with a total of 353 visitors (slightly more on Sunday than on Saturday). That was 10 down on 2016, but a little more than 2015.

The National Trust property at the Kymin, which holds Open Doors every year on the second weekend in September, had a very good weekend. “We had hundreds of happy visitors,” said Sara Szwer, the custodian. “All ages enjoyed watercolour and rock painting. There was also a demonstration of traditional spinning and home-made cakes were served in the Round House.”

A new venue this year, the Malthouse in St Mary Street, proved very popular even though it is still undergoing restoration. Another new venue, the Shambles under Priory Street, attracted a number of visitors. The garden of Little Castle House was open on Saturday, giving visitors an unusual view of the Monmouth Castle ruins.

“Monmouth Civic Society would like to thank all those who gave up their time and shared their knowledge to make Open Doors such a success,” said chairman Charles Boase.

Other properties opening their doors were the Shire Hall, Drybridge House, Ty Price, St Thomas’s Church, Great Castle House and Regimental Museum, Nelson Museum, The Priory, Masonic Hall Baptist Church, St Mary’s Priory Church, Savoy Theatre, St Mary’s RC Church, Methodist Church, Monmouth School Chapel, and The Nelson Garden.