THE engine room of Newcastle's Swing Bridge and the Georgian Theatre at Richmond, North Yorkshire, are among the North-East's historical buildings opening to the public for free next week.

More than 2,500 properties across Britain, which are normally closed or charge an entrance fee, are preparing to welcome nearly a million people as part of the Heritage Open Days scheme.

The event, which will runs from next Friday until to September 10, is organised by the Civic Trust.

Programme manager Diana Smart said: "The public have an appetite to see behind the scenes.

"This event offers the local and wider community a chance to view buildings which are the best or most unusual in architecture and culture, historic and contemporary."

In the North-East, visitors will be able to see buildings ranging from Darlington Town Hall, built in the late 1960s, to Durham's Norman Cathedral, which was recently voted Britain's best-loved building.

Both Durham and York Crown Courts will be also be opening their doors.

People who like heights can climb the 164 steps to the top of Grey's Monument in Newcastle, or brave the high-level walkway on Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge.

Other attractions include the ruined Coxhoe Hall, the birthplace of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning and the Tyne Bridge Tower in Gateshead.

There will also be a number of events and tours such as the historic churches bus tour in Darlington, and a walking tour of Durham City centre.

For more information about what is happening in your area, visit the Civic Trust website at www.civictrust.org.uk or call into your local Tourist Information Centre or library.