National Lottery Open Week Brings Free Access to UK Heritage Sites
Hundreds of the United Kingdom's most celebrated heritage sites and attractions are set to provide free entry, discounts, and special deals next week during the annual National Lottery Open Week. This event, running from Saturday, March 7 to Sunday, March 15, features participation from prominent venues such as National Trust properties, the Eden Project, and Edinburgh Zoo, with many offers coinciding with Mother's Day celebrations.
How to Access the Offers
To take advantage of these promotions, visitors simply need to present a National Lottery ticket, Instant Win Game, or scratch card upon arrival at any participating venue. This ticket can be physical or digital, and there is no requirement to purchase a new one, regardless of when it was used previously. The initiative is a gesture of gratitude from the National Lottery, which raises approximately £32 million weekly for good causes across the UK.
Significant Savings Available
With the cheapest National Lottery game costing just 25p, the potential savings are substantial. For example, Dover Castle typically charges adults £30 for on-the-day entry or £25 in advance, while the Eden Project usually costs adults £42 on the day or £38 in advance. During Open Week, these and many other venues will offer free or discounted access, making it an affordable opportunity to explore cultural and historical treasures.
Participating Venues Across the UK
This year's event includes a wide array of locations, with 74 venues in Scotland, 42 in Northern Ireland, 37 in Wales, and 589 across England. The list is regularly updated, but notable participants include:
- National Trust sites such as Kellie Castle, Dunham Massey, and Baddesley Clinton: free entry
- English Heritage sites including Carlisle Castle, Dover Castle, and Witley Court and Gardens: free entry from March 7 to 8 and March 11 to 15
- Eden Project, Cornwall: free entry from March 7 to March 15
- Yorkshire Sculpture Park: free entry from March 7 to 8 and March 10 to 13
- Tate Modern, London: 2-for-1 entry to Theatre Picasso
- Giant's Causeway, County Antrim: free entry
- RSPB sites including Salthome, Lochwinnoch, Conwy, and Loch Lomond: offers range from free entry to free parking
- Historic Royal Palaces such as the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, and Kensington Palace: 50% off entry
- Edinburgh Zoo: 2-for-1 entry
- World Rugby Museum, Twickenham: 2-for-1 entry on March 7 to 8 and March 10 to 15
In addition to entry discounts, some venues provide special extras like free hot drinks and cakes in their cafes, or reductions in shops, restaurants, and on half-priced tours.
Event Impact and Visitor Information
Last year's National Lottery Open Week attracted over 100,000 visitors who took up offers at more than 800 venues nationwide. To find participating locations and view specific deals, individuals can visit the National Lottery website, which features search options by category, region, or date, along with an interactive map for easy planning. This event encourages exploration of historical houses, castles, museums, wildlife hotspots, sports venues, art galleries, and theatres, offering a diverse cultural experience for all ages.
