TWO historic buildings at Haltwhistle Railway Station will be open for the public to explore next month.

The Victorian station's signal box was taken out of action two decades ago.

But for the first time since undergoing an impressive refurbishment, the Grade II listed former control room will open during the national Heritage Open Days weekend, on September 9 and 10.

Another Grade II listed building, the station's old booking hall, which was restored to its former glory earlier this year, will also welcome visitors.

A key feature of the booking hall is its furnishings designed to administer the Edmondson railway tickets of the 1840s.

The hall's original 19th century clock has also been restored, and the building is set to be used as an education centre by the Tyne Valley Community Rail Partnership.

The weekend will also include guided walks from Haltwhistle station to the town's Alson Arches viaduct across the River Tyne.

Heritage Open day events will take place elsewhere across Tynedale, with some getting under way earlier, from Thursday September 7, including a chance to visit the 1760 Quaker Friends Meeting House at Coanwood.

In Hexham, visitors can explore Hexham Abbey's rich history, and also experience a tour of the bell tour.

Hexham's old gaol will host a series of short talks describing how medieval prisoners shared their residence with wildlife and bugs.

The town's Forum Cinema will open its newly refurbished Art Deco cafe to celebrate the cinema's 80-year history. There will also be guided walks of Hexham's historic tannery area.

The birthplace of artist and engraver Thomas Bewick will open at Cherryburn, Mickley, and there will be an opportunity to explore the organ restoration project at Horsley.

The Allen Valleys will also host a variety of events, at Isaac's Hearse House, Allen Smelt Mill, and Killhope Lead Mining Museum. In the North Tyne, people will visit the Heritage Centre at Bellingham.

For information about all events, visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk