The weekend of the 20th and 21st September is London Open House weekend, giving Londoners and visitors alike the chance to visit over 500 buildings in the capital – many of them normally closed to the public.

The yearly event is organised by the architecture education charity London Open House, and gives completely free access to a huge range of fascinating interiors – everything from government buildings to City banks, from Art Deco cinemas to the latest in designer homes.

Here in Merton, ten buildings not normally open to the public are open for viewing, including the Buddhapadipa Temple, one of only 2 Thai style temples outside Asia and The Canons, a 16th century restoration manor house with picturesque grounds containing a medieval carp pond and walled garden.

More information can be found by ringing 09001 600 061 (60p per minute) or a complete buildings guide will be available from 1st September in Merton’s libraries, online at http://www.londonopenhouse.org or by sending an A5 SAE (42p stamp) along with a cheque for £2 (payable to London Open House) to PO Box 25361, London NW5 1GY.

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