Church Explorers Week, our Diocese’s church festival with a difference, returns for 2026. Between 23 – 31 May, we aim to open our churches and places of worship to provide a warm welcome and invite visitors to explore.
You can participate via an open day, the offer of a guided tour, a heritage display, a family trail, an outdoor activity or simply an open door and some refreshments. Other ideas for participation are welcomed; this is also our opportunity to explore new ways of encouraging people to discover what our churches have to offer. Don’t hesitate to contact your Church Buildings Officer if you would like help and support in the planning or delivery of your open day.
Church Explorers Week is an opportunity for us to celebrate and showcase our churches and outdoor spaces, putting them on the visitor map. It aims to encourage footfall and an appreciation of our unique places of worship through fun exploration and discovery.
We will look to categorise participation into 5 themes: History & Heritage, Family Fun, Outdoors & Nature, Open Days, and Music.
Leading up to Church Explorers Week, promotion of the initiative via our own communication channels, social media, and nearer the week in question, a press release to local media.
Your Mission Area Support Team are here to answer any questions. If you would like any help or support towards taking part in Church Explorers Week, please get in touch.
Churches and places of worship, within the Diocese of Sheffield, are invited to sign up for Church Explorer Week via the signup form.
If you have any questions regarding the campaign, get in touch with our Church Buildings Officer – chris.ellis@sheffield.anglican.org
