THIS weekend, the Gray's Almshouse and Chapel will be open to the public in Taunton for the first and last time this year.

As part of the national Heritage Open Days, Taunton Heritage Trust will be opening Gray's Almshouse and Chapel this Saturday, September 17.

The event offers a unique insight into Taunton in the 1600s. Visitors can experience the gardens, chapel and will be given a tour of the building's interior.

This Grade I Listed building is only open once a year, so please come and join us to see our wonderful Almshouse Chapel with its beautiful painted ceiling.

"Volunteers will be on site to give you a flavour of the history of the Taunton Almshouses and how we still provide accommodation today," Taunton Heritage Trust said.

Grays Almshouses date from 1635 and were founded by Robert Gray, a London merchant, born in Taunton in 1570.

The Almshouses were built to accommodate ten poor women, six poor men and a Reader.

The Almshouses now offer sheltered accommodation for those aged 60 and over, on a low income, and capable of independent living.

Many original features were retained, including the chapel.

Event Times

Saturday, September 17: Sessions run between 10:00 and 12:00; and 14:00 and 16:00 Grays Almshouses - East Street, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 3N