A historic Wiltshire mansion that was rescued from dereliction will open its doors to visitors free of charge as part of this year's Heritage Open Days.
Parade House in Trowbridge will welcome members of the public on Saturday, September 12, from 10am to 4pm, with free timed-entry tickets available throughout the day.
Built in 1720 for a wealthy clothier, the Grade I listed Georgian building has been restored by its current owners after years of decline.
Visitors will be able to explore several original features, including an 18th-century oak staircase, a grand first-floor ballroom, marble fireplaces, chandeliers and decorated rooms filled with antiques.
The property also includes a bar and a hidden cinema within its historic vaults.
Parade House played an important role in Trowbridge's history.
Constructed during the town's prosperous years as a centre of the wool and cloth trade, it later became the headquarters of Ushers Brewery.
The building was eventually threatened with redevelopment but was saved and restored by owners Carey and Simon Tesler, who prevented it from being converted into 11 bedsits.
Now operating as an events venue, Parade House has received a number of awards, including Best Events Venue in Wiltshire for three consecutive years in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
The open day forms part of the National Trust-supported Heritage Open Days festival, which gives the public access to historic buildings and places across the country.
Parade House is also preparing to host several Jane Austen-themed events later this month as part of celebrations marking the 251st anniversary of the author's birth.
The venue is the only location outside Bath included in the Jane Austen Festival programme and will host its popular "Ladies and Gentlemen on Parade" events on September 14 and September 18.
Around 130 festival-goers in Regency costume are expected to travel by train from Bath before parading through Trowbridge to Parade House, where they will take part in an afternoon of entertainment, parlour games and a cream tea in the ballroom.
A public photo opportunity featuring the mayor of Trowbridge, the town crier and "Lord and Lady Trowbridge" is planned outside the venue at 2pm.
A Regency afternoon cream tea with performances by the Jane Austen Dancers of Bath will be held at Parade House on September 27.
Free Heritage Open Days tickets and details of other events are available through the Parade House website.
To book free tickets visit www.paradehousetrowbridge.co.uk/events
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