Heritage Open Days at the Hat District

Hidden in Plain Sight

As part of Heritage Open Days 2025, the Hat Factory Arts Centre will host Hidden in Plain Sight, a community photo exhibition celebrating Luton's architectural character through its overlooked details – tiled doorsteps, carved plaques, decorative brickwork, fading signs and more.

Community submissions are open until Monday 9 September 2025.

Stories Inscribed

The Culture Trust Luton has commissioned acclaimed local artist Abu Yahya to create a new series of large-scale calligraphy works in the Hat District, as part of Heritage Open Days 2025. The works will unfold live across the week of 12 – 21 September, drawing visitors' attention to the historic fabric of Luton’s former Hat Factories.

Look to the Rooftops

A workshop exploring Luton’s hidden history through creative writing during Heritage Open Days 2025 at the Hat District.

Straw boater: A talk about history and legacy

A workshop exploring Luton’s hidden history through creative writing during Heritage Open Days 2025 at the Hat District.