How much do you know about the history of the streets you live on?

For one weekend only (Saturday the 13th and Sunday the 14th of September), Saffron Walden Museum is opening its doors to the public for FREE.

The unique weekend is part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme, designed to offer special access to places of historical and cultural interest, and features two highly engaging attractions.

News of the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great War is everywhere, but how exactly did war change lives in the countryside?

The brand new exhibition North-West Essex at War promises a better understanding of life in the district during the First and Second World Wars.

And if you’re a fan of all things animal, don’t miss the natural history section and the chance to get up close and personal with famous lion, Wallace, from the poem The Lion And Albert.

If you've got a love of creepy-crawlies you can help the museum staff spot their sneaky stick insects and, if you're lucky, you could even get to stroke the resident hedgehog and fox!

Younger visitors get even more fun with themed trails, microscopes, discovering Essex wildlife on a touch-screen, and digging in the archaeological sandpit.

Gemma Tully, the museum’s Visitor Services and Learning Officer, said: “The museum is a wonderful community resource and the Open Museum weekend will give everyone, regular visitors or first timers, the chance to explore the range of exhibitions and hands-on activities without having to spend a penny.”

So make the most of a good thing this weekend and get on down to the Saffron Walden Museum - you won't regret it!

For more information please visit the Heritage Open Days website or contact Gemma Tully on 01799 510333 or e-mail. Opening times: Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 2pm – 5pm.