Guided walks, tours and trails at the Rushmoor Heritage Festival

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Aldershot Military Cemetery - An Expert Tour

Sunday 13 September, Aldershot

Discover the stories behind one of Aldershot’s most significant historic sites on a guided tour of Aldershot Military Cemetery. Established in the nineteenth century, the cemetery is the final resting place of thousands of servicemen, women and civilians, reflecting the town’s long-standing role as the Home of the British Army.

Highlights

• Explore one of the UK's largest military cemeteries
• Learn about the lives of soldiers and their families who shaped Aldershot’s history
• Discover Commonwealth War Graves and memorials
• Hear fascinating stories of military service, sacrifice and community life
• Gain insights into the development of Aldershot as a garrison town

The guide for the tour will be local historian Keith Bean, author of the book “Aldershot’s Cemetery Secrets”. This tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the personal stories and historic events commemorated within the cemetery, providing a deeper understanding of Aldershot’s military heritage.

Cost: Free

Time: 2pm to 4pm

Further information: Pre-booking is required. For times, tickets and more information, visit the Heritage Open Days website.

Organiser: Friends of Aldershot Military Cemetery

 

Aldershot Town Football Club - The EBB Stadium Tour

Thursday 17 September, Aldershot

Step into the heart of Aldershot football with an exclusive tour of the EBB Stadium, home of Aldershot Town FC, proud competitors in the Enterprise National League. With nearly a century of football heritage, the stadium has evolved while retaining its iconic spirit - and now’s your chance to see it from the inside.

Highlights

• Explore the club’s main building - including the home and away changing rooms, manager’s office, and matchday tunnel
• Visit all three lounges, including two hospitality suites and the historic Phoenix Lounge beneath the South Stand
• Step into the boardroom, home to the club’s trophy collection.
• Walk through every stand, including the legendary and passionate East Bank
• Finish on the pitch and in the dugouts for a true matchday perspective

Walk the halls where legends have prepared for battle and to celebrate the enduring spirit of football in Aldershot.

Cost: Free

Time: 5.30pm to 6.30pm

Location: EBB Stadium, The High Street, Aldershot, GU11 1TW

Further information: Pre-booking is required directly by contacting Jamie Macallister. For times, tickets and more information, visit the Facebook event page.

Organiser: Shots in the Community Foundation

 

At Home with Miss Daniell - A Guided Walk

Saturday 12 September, Aldershot

Step back into Victorian Aldershot and discover the remarkable story of Louisa Daniell, one of the town’s most influential yet often overlooked residents. Join expert guides for a fascinating walking tour exploring the places connected to Miss Daniell’s life and work, and learn how her dedication helped transform the lives of soldiers’ wives, widows and children in the rapidly growing military town.

This engaging guided walk offers a unique perspective on Aldershot’s heritage, bringing to life the story of a woman whose compassion and determination left a lasting legacy on the town.

Highlights

• Follow in the footsteps of Louisa Daniell and uncover her lasting impact on Aldershot
• Explore key locations connected to her pioneering social and charitable work
• Hear stories of Victorian life in the garrison town and the challenges faced by military families
• Discover how one determined woman helped create opportunities for generations of local people
• Learn about Aldershot’s social history through the eyes of one of its most inspiring residents

Cost: Free

Time: 11am

Location: The walk begins at Princes Gardens and ends at Municipal Gardens

Tickets: Pre-booking is required. For times, tickets and more information, visit the Heritage Open Days website.

Organiser: Samantha Stacey

 

Behind the Curtain - Princes Hall Backstage Tours

Tuesday 15 September, Aldershot

Explore the magic behind the curtain during Rushmoor's Heritage Festival! Discover the stories behind the stage and explore a venue that has entertained generations of Aldershot audiences.

This unique experience offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of your local theatre, allowing you to discover the hidden workings and fascinating history that make Princes Hall a beloved cultural landmark.

Highlights

• Behind-the-scenes access: Walk through areas usually off-limits to the public, including the stage and technical booths
• Historical insights: Learn about the rich history of Princes Hall, from its construction to its role in the community over the decades, and the many famous faces that have trodden the boards
• Technical marvels: See the equipment and technology that bring performances to life, from lighting rigs to sound systems

Whether you're a theatre enthusiast, history buff, or just curious about what goes on behind the curtain, these backstage tours will offer an unforgettable experience. Don't miss this chance to step into the spotlight and discover the magic of theatre from a whole new perspective!

Cost: Free

Times: Tour 1 - 4pm to 5pm. Tour 2 - 6pm to 7pm

Location: Princes Hall, Princes Way, Aldershot, GU11 1NX

Further information: Pre-booking is required. For times, tickets and more information, visit the Princes Hall website.

Organiser: Princes Hall

 

Footsteps Through Old Farnborough -
A Guided Walking Tour with Mike Johnson

Saturday 12 September, Thursday 17 September, Saturday 19 September, Farnborough

Join local resident and heritage enthusiast Mike Johnson for a guided walking tour through Farnborough Street village - the historic heart of old Farnborough. Enjoy distant views of Farnborough Hill and the Abbey, and pass by Ye Olde Farm, believed to be the oldest building in the village. Along the way, discover the stories of a local potter turned farmer, a blacksmithing family, and the rich history behind the buildings that line this charming street.

The tour ends at the historic Farnborough North Station House, where Mike will host a Q&A and share deeper insights from his local research. Guests can unwind in Reg’s Garden with complimentary refreshments and explore a curated collection of historical books.

Cost: Free

Dates & times:

Saturday 12 September, 10.30am to 12pm, plus time for Q&A and refreshments
Thursday 17 September, 10.30am to 12pm, plus time for Q&A and refreshments
Saturday 19 September, 2pm to 3.30pm, plus time for Q&A and refreshments

Location: The tour starts at Highgate Lane, Farnborough and ends at Farnborough North Station

Tickets: Pre-booking is required through our Ticketsource page.

Further information: The tour length is 1.5 miles. The walk is fairly flat, the steepest slope being up to the footbridge over the railway. The terrain is mostly surfaced but you will cross a recreation ground for 100 yards, the condition of which will depend on recent weather.

Organiser: Rushmoor Borough Council

 

From Army Boots to Animal Tracks - A Brass Rubbing Adventure Through the Woodlands

Available year-round, Aldershot

Set off on a family adventure and discover Wellesley Woodlands through the Brass Rubbings Trail. Follow the route through this beautiful woodland landscape and hunt for a series of engraved brass rubbing posts inspired by the wildlife that calls the area home.

Once part of Aldershot's historic military training grounds, Wellesley Woodlands is now a thriving green space rich in wildlife and natural beauty. The Brass Rubbings Trail offers a fun way to explore the site while uncovering the plants and animals that make it so special.

Highlights

• Search for brass rubbing plaques hidden around the woodland
• Discover local wildlife and nature along the trail
• Create your own collection of brass rubbings as you explore
• Enjoy a fun outdoor activity for families and young explorers
• Learn more about the natural heritage of Wellesley Woodlands

Cost: Free

Location: Wellesley Woodlands, Aldershot

Further information: Download the trail guide and find out more via the Wellesley Woodlands Brass Rubbings Trail website.

Organiser: Land Trust and Wellesley Woodlands

 

History in Your Pocket - Rushmoor Heritage Trails app

Available year-round, Aldershot and Farnborough

Discover the stories that shaped Aldershot and Farnborough with the Rushmoor Heritage Trails app. Whether you're exploring on foot or from the comfort of your sofa, these free digital trails bring local history to life through photographs, maps and fascinating stories.

Highlights

• Follow the story of Farnborough's aviation pioneers and world-changing innovations
• Explore Aldershot's military heritage and discover why it became the Home of the British Army
• Uncover hidden landmarks, historic buildings and forgotten stories
• Learn about remarkable local people, communities and events
• Explore at your own pace, either on location or from home

Whether you're tracing Farnborough's world-changing aviation achievements or exploring the streets, barracks and landmarks of Aldershot, the Heritage Trails app offers a fascinating way to discover the stories behind the places you pass every day. Simply download the app and choose your adventure.

Cost: Free

Location: Various locations across Aldershot and Farnborough

Further information: Download the Heritage Trails app.

Organiser: Rushmoor Borough Council

 

Imperial Echoes - Guided Tours of St Michael’s Abbey, Farnborough

Saturday 12 September, Farnborough
Saturday 19 September, Farnborough

Step into history at Farnborough’s majestic St Michael’s Abbey, where imperial legacy and architectural splendour intertwine. Founded by Empress Eugénie following the tragic exile and death of Emperor Napoleon III and their son Louis-Napoléon, the Abbey remains a hidden gem of national and international heritage. Join Brother Aelred, a resident Benedictine monk, for an exclusive guided tour.

Highlights

• A walk through the exquisite Gothic-style church, rich in symbolism and craftsmanship
• A visit to the Imperial Crypt, the final resting place of France’s last Emperor and his family
• Fascinating stories of devotion, exile, and remembrance, spanning continents and centuries

The Abbey continues to serve as a living place of worship and monastic life, maintaining strong ties with France and offering a unique spiritual retreat in the heart of Hampshire. This is a rare chance to witness one of the UK’s most intriguing architectural and cultural landmarks.

Cost: £7 minimum donation

Location: Saint Michael’s Abbey, Farnborough

Further information: No pre-booking required. For times, costs, tickets and more information, visit the Saint Michael’s Abbey website.

Organiser: Saint Michael’s Abbey

 

Tice's Meadow Tour - 
From Farm to Quarry to Community Nature Reserve

Wednesday 16 September, Aldershot

Join a 2.5 kilometre walking tour around the reserve. The Tices Meadow team will share the history of the site from prehistoric settlement to farming, quarrying and restoration to an award-winning nature reserve. More than 1500 species of wildlife have been recorded at the reserve including 200 species of bird.

The walk will follow the biodiversity trail taking through woodland, meadow, reed bed and river habitats, with your tour guide helping you to spot the resident wildlife.

Cost: Free

Further information: Pre-booking is required through the Heritage Open Days website. For times, tickets and more information, visit the Heritage Open Days website. 

Organiser: The Farnham Society

 

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About these events

Many activities are free and some require advance booking. Many of these events are not organised by ourselves, so please check each individual organiser's website for more information.

To see the full list of events, please visit our main Rushmoor Heritage Festival page.