Residents, property owners, heritage enthusiasts, and construction professionals are invited to explore the fascinating world of earth building at a free Heritage Earth Building Open Day taking place in Swaffham this September.
Hosted by EARTHA (East Anglian Regional Traditional Houses Association), the event will be held on Thursday 24 September 2026, from 10.30am to 4.30pm, at the Iceni Swaffham Hub, PE37 7RB.
The free all-day event will showcase the remarkable qualities of clay as a building material, examining its historic use in East Anglia’s built heritage and its growing relevance in sustainable construction today.
Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about traditional earth-building techniques through a series of discussions and live demonstrations led by experienced EARTHA members Colin Williams, Michael Knights, and Simon Steele. Demonstrations will include traditional methods such as wattle and daub and clay lump construction, both of which have played an important role in shaping the region’s architectural heritage.
Whether you are interested in local history, heritage conservation, sustainable building methods, or simply want to learn more about the buildings around you, this event offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on insight from recognised experts in the field.
Refreshments will be available throughout the day, and attendees can request a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate for participation.
The event is being delivered by EARTHA in partnership with Breckland Council and Swaffham Town Council, with funding provided by Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and is kindly hosted by Iceni Swaffham Hub.
Event Details
Heritage Earth Building Open Day
📅 Thursday 24 September 2026
🕥 10.30am to 4.30pm
📍 Iceni Swaffham Hub, PE37 7RB
🎟 Free admission
For more information and to book your place, visit:
🔗 https://HeritageEarthBuildingOpenDay.eventbrite.co.uk
To learn more about EARTHA and its work promoting and preserving traditional earth-building techniques, visit:
This promises to be an engaging and informative day celebrating one of East Anglia’s most distinctive building traditions while exploring its role in a more sustainable future.