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Explore Keymer’s rich history and craftsmanship at Heritage Open Days
This year, Mole Valley1 proudly celebrates the 30th anniversary of Heritage Open Days, a milestone that highlights three decades of community engagement and cultural preservation. This annual event offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich historical and cultural tapestry of the district, with free access to a variety of sites, including historic buildings, beautiful gardens and sites that are typically closed to the public. And what better example of that history than with Keymer Tiles. Founded in 1588, we’re one of the oldest established roofing brands in the UK and have become synonymous with quality, expert craftmanship and creativity. Our use of local, rich Wealden clay produces award winning authentic roof tiles in unique warm colours and textures, providing you with renowned durability.
Every year we open the doors at our Keymer factory in Ewhurst to give locals the chance to see what goes to making the premium tiles that you can find on many well-known and major historical buildings across the UK. This year we saw around 150 people attend a busy day and this included lots of family members of the people who work at the factory to get a look at what they did on a day-to-day basis.
We delivered fifteen full factory tours and our Carver of Clay, Ian Martinson, was on hand to demonstrate the art of carving – the elephants that were made being raffle prizes on the day. The highlight of the tour was, no doubt, the chance to hand-make their very own Keymer premium tile using methods that have been passed down over centuries.
It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate to the local community the value we add. Plenty of people gave compliments throughout on what a wonderful day it was and said they would be back next year and bring friends with them.
