Heritage Open Days

Treasures of Weston Point: Rare Artefacts and Photos on Display

Visit Catalyst FREE OF CHARGE on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September as part of the National Heritage Open Day Events.

Heritage Open Days - Bradford

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture, involving thousands of local volunteers and organisations. Every year in September it brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. Stories are told, traditions explored, and histories brought to life. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all FREE.

Step into the rich history of Runcorn’s industrial past at our special Catalyst Heritage Open Day. This year, we are proud to showcase a remarkable collection of rescued artefacts from the Weston Point Studios, once at the heart of the old ICI site.

Visitors will have the unique opportunity to see never-before-displayed photographs capturing the everyday lives of employees, from the workshop floor to social events, as well as striking archival images of the site’s buildings. These rare materials shine a light on the people and places that shaped generations of working life in Runcorn.

Alongside the photo displays, artefacts saved from the studios will be on show, offering a tangible connection to the creativity, craft, and community spirit that defined the area.

Whether you have a personal link to ICI, a passion for local history, or simply want to discover more about the heritage of our town, this is a chance to explore stories that have been hidden away – until now.

Venue: Catalyst Science Discovery Centre and Museum
Date: Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st September
⏰ Time: 10am – 5pm
Free entry – all welcome

Of course, you can also browse the main museum offering, or stop for a tasty snack or drink from the Catalyst Café whilst admiring the views of Spike Island and the Mersey Gateway Bridge!

Come and celebrate our shared heritage, reconnect with the past, and discover treasures that tell the story of Runcorn’s industrial legacy.