Heritage Days 2026 at the Hôtel de Charost, the residence of the British Ambassador to France.

Looking to explore places that are usually off-limits? Heritage Days pull back the curtain on Paris and the Île-de-France. This year, the Hôtel de Charost, the residence of the British Ambassador, opens its doors by reservation. Save the date: Saturday, September 19, 2026.

As the new school year kicks off, beyond the usual metro-work-apéro routine, lace up your sneakers and head out to explore Île-de-France thanks to the 43rd edition of the European Heritage Days, on September 19 and 20, 2026! The idea? Two days of doors wide open at iconic or ultra-secret sites — museums, monuments, châteaux, historic townhouses — with 100% free access. It’s a chance to slip into places that are sometimes closed to the public, get up close to history, with no display case or barrier.

Heritage Days 2026: discover embassies from around the world in Paris
How about a mini trip? During these European Heritage Days, take a world tour by visiting the embassies and consulates that will open their doors to Parisians for free this weekend, September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]

And this year, watch out for a real gem! On Saturday, September 19, the Residence of the Ambassador of the United Kingdom in France steps into the spotlight. The Hôtel de Charost, tucked away in the 8th arrondissement, opens its doors for a special tour. This eighteenth‑century architectural jewel was built in 1725 and has belonged to the British government since 1814.

Three centuries of diplomacy, elegance, and intimate secrets, set in a backdrop worthy of a historical novel. As the official residence of the United Kingdom's ambassadors to France, this ultra-private venue invites you, for a day, to step back in time among gilded halls, tapestries, and international diplomacy.

Heritage Days 2026 program at the Hôtel de Charost:

Special Opening of the UK Ambassador’s Residence
On the occasion of European Heritage Days, the Residence of the British Ambassador to France will exceptionally open its doors to the public on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

Visitors will have a rare chance to explore the Hôtel de Charost, a jewel of Parisian architectural heritage nestled in the heart of the 8th arrondissement. Built in 1725, this splendid town house embodies the elegance of 18th-century French architecture and bears witness to centuries of diplomatic and cultural history.

Purchased by the British government in 1814, the Hôtel de Charost has been the official residence of Britain's ambassadors to France for over two centuries. Over the years it has hosted numerous distinguished figures and witnessed key moments in Franco-British relations.

Guests will be able to wander through the state rooms, the ballroom, and the gardens, while also discovering period artworks and furnishings. The guided route will offer an immersion into the United Kingdom’s rich cultural and creative landscape, highlighting its historic ties with France—from the Bayeux Tapestry to the treasures of Sutton Hoo, up to contemporary expressions of its creative industries. Visitors will also have the chance to see one of the latest works by British artist David Hockney, a leading figure in contemporary art.
How to participate: Free | Booking required - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ouverture-exceptionnelle-de-la-residence-de-lambassadeur-du-royaume-uni-tickets-1992477220001?aff=oddtdtcreator
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026 — 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

A royal immersion not to be missed!