NewsBeat
National Lottery Open week offers free entry to North West landmarks
Dunham Massey (Image: Tim Edwards)
From wandering through the grand Lyme Hall — famous for the iconic Pride and Prejudice scene where Colin Firth’s Mr Darcy plunges into the lake — to discovering one of the country’s most stunning gardens, there are plenty of budget‑friendly days out that won’t break the bank throughout the week. All visitors have to do is show a lottery ticket on arrival.
This National Lottery Open Week (7–14 March), the historic home is opening its doors and inviting people to uncover the lesser-known stories, spaces, and behind-the-scenes moments that your support helps bring to life.
From secret corners and untold histories to rare opportunities to peek behind the scenes, there’s something for everyone to discover.
Lyme Park offers plenty to do whatever the forecast (Image: Google Maps)
A spokesman said: “”Whether you’re exploring the wonders of nature or enjoying the beauty of the outdoors, your visit helps care for these special places.
LYME HALL
The historic hall in Cheshire will be open from March 7 to 14
GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE MUSEUM
Guided tours will take place at the museum on March 12
RHS Bridgewater
From 7-14 March 2026, use any National Lottery ticket for £1 entry per person for up to four people, booked via the link provided.
RHS Bridgewater feels like a world away. A day at the garden is a great way to take some time for yourself or to enjoy a day out with friends and family. Children will love exploring the Wind in the Willows Garden Adventure trail, new for this year, following Mole, Ratty and Badger chase after naughty Mr Toad on an expedition across the garden.
A spokesman said: “If your visit to RHS Bridgewater inspires you to recreate some of its magic at home, you can pay a visit to our garden centre. It’s not just the garden that is a treat for the senses. The fresh, seasonal produce in our cafés is something to savour too. Try a freshly baked pizza at the Stables Café or linger over a long lunch in the Bridgewater Café.”
GUIDE DOGS REGIONAL CENTRE NORTH WEST
Free tour on March 12 at the centre in Atherton.
A spokesman said: “Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at Guide Dogs? Come to one of our centres to find out more about each guide dog’s journey to become a life-changer. Join us for an amazing visitor experience; we can’t wait to show you around!”
RUFFORD OLD HALL, ORMSKIRK
For fans of the Tudors, this historic home dates back to the 16th century and is billed as a fine home of its period situated in a woodland waiting to be explored.
Free entry between March 7 and 10 and March 13 and 14
SPEKE HALL, LIVERPOOL
Another stunning Tudor mansion will be opening its doors for free from March 7 to 14
CHETHAM’S SCHOOL OF MUSIC LIBRARY
Free entry March 14
Chetham’s Library is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world. As part of this year’s National Lottery Open Week, the library is throwing open its doors and inviting you to join us for an afternoon behind-the-scenes event.
A spokesman said: “To celebrate the launch of our ‘Lost and Found’ exhibition, visitors will be able to explore the medieval building, encounter items from our collections and discover how we preserve them for future generations. Children and grown-ups alike can also take part in a fun scavenger hunt in the building.
“The event will run from 1pm-4pm, with last entry at 3pm. Entry is free for one adult and up to two children under 16 with a valid National Lottery ticket.”
“ We are a hidden gem,” says Sian-Louise Mason of Chetham’s. “We are the oldest working medieval building in the north of England. We are the original medieval quarter of Manchester and yet most Mancunians have either never heard of us or never been through our doors before, which is wild. It’s the most common thing that people say: ‘I’ve lived in Manchester my whole life, never been in’.
For more information on all of the above openings, including whether booking is necessary, and other places taking part in the open week, please visit https://www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/open-week