Warwick University Invites Public to Explore Academic Buildings and Family Archives

Student Life and Campus History on Display as Warwick Joins Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community-led festival of history and culture. This initiative invites the public to explore historic buildings, cultural landmarks and such hidden places. Under this drive, Warwick University opened its doors to the public, providing a once-in-a-lifetime view behind the scenes that encouraged the public to venture into its archive, campus buildings and architectural heritage. Celebrating 60 years since its establishment, the UK university is giving the world a unique chance to look back at its development, student life, and impact on contemporary British education.

The Modern Records Centre (MRC) will organise a series of sessions, led by archivists, which track the evolution of the University against milestones in twentieth-century British history. These events should dovetail with the national theme of architecture this year, providing information on buildings' past, the design of university buildings, and the social context of the 1960s. Guests will be led through exhibitions that chronicle six decades of development, innovation, and change on the campus of the university.

Moreover, a new workshop named “Finding Family in the Archives”, with genealogist Paul Wilkins, will familiarise participants with chosen archival collections to pursue research on family history. Ranging from trade union records to political papers, the MRC's collections are reported to provide rich evidence for exploring personal and family histories, an experience that unites student research with public involvement and historical investigation.

The events are being planned for:

• Friday 12 September 2025: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM

• Wednesday 17 September 2025: 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM Pre-booking is essential through archives@warwick.ac.uk.

At the same time, in honour of the University's 60th anniversary, the Grade II listed Maths Houses on Gibbet Hill Campus will be unveiled to the public for the first time. Bill Howell designed these buildings in 1969 as accommodation for visiting mathematicians, and they are known for their unique 'wiggly walls' and chalkboard-lined interior spaces. Given a RIBA Architecture Prize in 1970, the houses are still a testament to Warwick University's dedication to innovative teaching and architectural experimentation.

Visitors will be able to visit one of the houses, see original design plans from the MRC, and join maths-themed craft sessions with Dr Helena Verrill from the Maths Department at Warwick. The event is sponsored by the Warwick Institute of Engagement, whose Academic Director, Professor Helen Wheatley, has welcomed the opportunity to make the campus more friendly and accessible to everyone.

The Maths Houses event will be held on:

Sunday 21 September 2025: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM Both events are fully accessible, with parking, accessible toilets, and provision for assistance dogs and families.

Together, they present a strong academic buildings tour that combines history and architecture, public outreach, and a promotion of student life. They demonstrate Warwick University's long tradition of being open, innovative, and respectful of its own rich institutional heritage.

Editor’s Note

This year's Heritage Open Days program will offer a great opportunity for the general public to touch and engage with the real history and the emerging identity of Warwick University. England's largest festival for communities to lead history and culture has had Warwick pledging to throw open its archives and architectural spaces to bring forth the fruits of commitment in transparency, education, and public engagement. Warwick, as it celebrates closing in on its 60th year, enriches the story of its legacy, having opened its behind-the-scenes access to the Modern Records Centre and the Grade II listed Maths Houses. The events focused around this year's overall national theme of architecture will enable people to trace how academic buildings came to be, glean insight into the principles affecting the design of campus structures, and contemplate the shifting demographics of student life over the past six decades. The addition of the Finding Family in the Archives workshop provides additional value, allowing members of the public to delve into personal and family histories through carefully curated archival materials. This combination of historical research, public engagement, and experiential learning illustrates how UK universities can act as cultural anchors in their surrounding communities. Notably, these activities are completely accessible and carefully planned to include families, researchers, and residents. They provide a unique opportunity to explore the University's architectural heritage, learn about its collections, and take part in creative activities, all in an embracing campus setting.

Skoobuzz regards this initiative as timely and necessary. In an era where public trust in institutions is more vital than ever, Warwick University's participation in Heritage Open Days stands as a model of transparency, accessibility, and educational value. By opening its archives and architectural spaces to the public, the University reinforces its commitment to inclusive engagement and the responsible sharing of institutional heritage.

FAQs

1. What are the Heritage Open Days 2025 at the University of Warwick?

Heritage Open Days 2025 at the University of Warwick are part of a national festival celebrating history and culture. The University is opening its archives and campus buildings to the public, offering guided sessions and workshops that highlight its 60-year journey in British higher education.

2. How can visitors explore Warwick University’s historic buildings?

Visitors can explore the University’s historic buildings through archivist-led tours at the Modern Records Centre and a special opening of the Grade II listed Maths Houses. These events include access to original design documents and insights into the architecture and academic life of the 1960s.

3. What student activities are featured during the open days?

During the open days, visitors can take part in maths-themed craft sessions led by Warwick’s Maths Department. These activities are designed to be engaging for all ages and reflect the University’s creative approach to teaching and learning.

4. Why is the University of Warwick celebrating its heritage?

The University is celebrating its heritage to mark 60 years since its founding. It aims to share its history, architectural legacy, and contribution to student life and British education with the wider public, promoting openness and community engagement.

5. How can you register for Warwick University's open days?

To attend the events, visitors must pre-book by emailing archives@warwick.ac.uk. The sessions are scheduled for 12, 17, and 21 September 2025, and all venues are fully accessible.

6. What role does the Modern Records Centre play in preserving Warwick University’s history?

The Modern Records Centre (MRC) serves as the University’s main archive, preserving documents and collections that reflect Warwick’s development over the past 60 years. It holds materials related to student life, academic growth, and wider social movements, offering valuable insights into both institutional and national history.

7. Why are the Maths Houses considered an important part of Warwick University’s architectural heritage?

The Maths Houses are recognised for their unique design and historical significance. Built in 1969 to host visiting mathematicians, they feature distinctive ‘wiggly walls’ and chalkboard-lined interiors. Awarded a RIBA Architecture Prize in 1970, the buildings reflect Warwick’s commitment to experimental teaching and architectural innovation.