Several venues and events are taking place across the South West to mark National Lottery Open Week, offering various freebies and discounts.

The occasion runs from March 9 to 17, with the National Lottery, now in its 30th year, focusing on encouraging people to try new experiences.

The offers provide a golden ticket to access intriguing attractions across the South West for a fraction of the usual cost or, in some cases, for free.

Included in the celebrations are historical houses, wildlife hotspots, sports venues, as well as galleries and theatres.

Those with a valid National Lottery ticket, scratchcard or instant win game are entitled to the various offers.

Suitable for all ages, there is something for every interest - from nature lovers to history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Notably, Cornwall’s world-renowned Eden Project offers free entry throughout the Open Week, providing a unique opportunity to embrace nature at no cost.

Families in Devon won’t want to miss boarding the historical SS Freshspring steamship on March 17, with free entry available.

Meanwhile, a hidden history tour of Radipole Park & Gardens is set for March 15, for those who wish to peel back layers of time and explore the quieter corners of Dorset.

RSPB Arne is hosting a guided nature walk on March 16, and a short trip away, free parking is being provided at RSPB Ham Wall.

Culture seekers might be captivated by the half-price guided tour from Avalon Archaeology on March 13, while art enthusiasts will cherish the chance to enter the Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum at no charge on March 15.

There are multiple National Trust sites across the South West participating as well, including Killerton, Park Landscape Garden, Barrington Court and Dyrham Park.

Courts Garden join the list, all inviting visitors to explore their grounds and heritage.

The Open Week is a nationwide thank you to lottery players, who raise £30million weekly for good causes.

A wide range of discounted or free offerings await those willing to take part in this celebration, all under the premise of opening up to new experiences and enjoying the wealth of attractions across the South West.

Somerset County Gazette: The occasion runs from March 9 to 17, with the National Lottery, now in its 30th year, focusing on

The main venues taking part in the South West are as follows:

  • RSPB Arne – guided nature walk (March 16)
  • RSPB Ham Wall – free parking Torquay Museum – 50 per cent off annual tickets
  • The Eden Project – free entry
  • Wellington Tennis Club – April 1
  • Bristol Indoor Bowls Club – free bowling & coaching (March 9-10)
  • The Tank Museum – free entry for children
  • SS Freshspring Trust – free entry for families (March 17)
  • Radipole Park & Gardens – hidden history tour (March 15)
  • National Maritime Museum – free hot drink
  • Osborne – free entry (March 16-17)
  • Pendennis Castle – free entry (March 16-17)
  • Fun Nordic walking taster – free (March 16)
  • Crediton Library Reminiscence Project – social evening (March 15)
  • Moonfleet 2000 indoor bowls club – March 13-16
  • New Opportunities for Community and Support – free workshop (March 11)
  • Avalon Archaeology – half price guided tour (March 13)
  • Russell Cotes Art Gallery and Museum – free entry (March 15)
  • National Trust – Killerton, Park Landscape Garden, Barrington Court, Dyrham Park, Courts Garden

For further details on venues and offers nationwide, visit www.NationalLotteryOpenWeek.com.