HIGH House at Purfleet will play host to two heritage days next month.

Visitors are invited to call in at the venue on Vellacott Close and take in its history. Two of volunteers will be dressed in period costumes, ready to give you a guided tour and tell of the history connected to High House. The cafe will be open for refreshments.

The written and recorded history of High House dates back to 1552 when the house was first built.

High House is part of the Heritage Open Days Edible England celebration this year. Many years ago it was a working farm, producing marrows, onions, and pumpkins.

Known by many names in its past, the farm was also called Le Vineyards, because grape vines were grown on one of its south facing slopes.

Its current name comes from the fact that it is a house high on a hill, which used to command great views over the River Thames. High House, Purfleet is also the name for a collection of buildings in the heart of Purfleet that have stood for over 450 years.

The buildings consist of the house, the stable block, the barn, the granary, cart sheds, the workshop and gardens. Its magnificent Dovecote is often mentioned as one of the best examples in Southern England.

The open days are: Sunday 12 September and Sunday, 19 September. Volunteers will be on site from 11am to 3pm. Refreshments available and children are welcome.