NORTH Ayrshire opens its doors this weekend to Scotland’s largest free architectural event.

‘Doors Open Day’ permits free access to hundreds of buildings around the country and in North Ayrshire that means free access to some of the West of Scotland’s most cultural assets.

Venues like Kilwinning Abbey Tower, the recently refurbished Saltcoats Town Hall and Harbour Arts Centre are just some of those whose doors will be open.

Saltcoats Heritage Centre will also be open with free access to the portrait exhibition nd Irvine Royal Academy will open its doors to let people see the 250kw Solar Array on its roof. Locals can also learn all about the school’s 1mW Biomass boiler installation through a bespoke video presentation.

The school will be open from 10am – 4pm on Saturday and Sunday and organised tours will run from 10.30am with the last tour schedule for 3.30pm.

The annual event will give local people the opportunity to appreciate North Ayrshire’s stunning architecture, some of which is not readily available for public viewing. It will also give locals the chance to learn about the history of the buildings and hear some compelling stories about them too.

Audrey Sutton is Head of North Aryshire Council’s Connected Communities and is encouraging everyone to take advantage of this free annual event.

She said: “Doors Open Day is a great day out for all the family. It gives everyone the chance to appreciate the splendour of some of our most stunning architecture and get a history lesson to boot.

“Some of these historic buildings have restricted access for the public but this event will lift that barrier and allow everyone to see first-hand the real beauty and workmanship that exists on their doorstep.”

Doors Open Day began 26 years ago in Ayr and Glasgow in 1990. It is now a national event covering almost every area in Scotland and is co-ordinated by the Scottish Civic Trust. For more information on the venues taking part visit www.doorsopendays.org.uk or pick up a leaflet in your local library.