Some of the borough's treasures will be throwing open their doors next week, offering people a unique opportunity to visit buildings not usually open to the public.

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council is inviting residents to take free tours of medieval underground caves, historic listed buildings and various museums, as part of the Heritage Open Days scheme, running from Thursday, September 8, to Sunday, September 11.

Heritage Open Days is a national scheme aimed at encouraging people of all ages to find out more about local buildings, history, architecture and culture.

The borough council is working in partnership with the Civic Trust, private owners of properties, museums, national amenity societies and many other groups.

Councillor Philip Circus, executive member for environment, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for people to explore and enjoy places around the borough they may not usually have access to. Many residents are unaware of these hidden treasures and I would encourage people of all ages to pay them a visit.

"These open days offer people the opportunity to learn about their local history, as well as being fun to visit. This opportunity to see some of the borough's landmarks for free is certainly one not to be missed."

Brochures are available from the borough's Help Shops, libraries and at the venues involved, outlining dates and times the buildings will be open this year. Alternatively a copy can be downloaded from the council's website www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk.