A DAY to celebrate Dorchester’s architectural heritage has been hailed a success.

Visitors flocked in their masses to High East Street and High West Street on Sunday as part of the Dorset Architectural Heritage Week.

Both roads were closed to traffic to allow visitors to explore the town’s historic roads and buildings.

The initiative was led by Dorchester Heritage Committee together with the Dorchester Civic Society, local Blue badge tourist guides, the Dorchester BID and local volunteers.

It marked the first time both streets have been closed since the opening of the bypass in 1988.

In addition to the road closures, free entry was offered to visitors to Dorset County Museum, Shire Hall and The Keep Military Museum.

Town Councillor Alistair Chisholm, who helped organise the event as a member of the Dorchester Heritage Committee, said: “There were a lot of people which is heartening. It was a very nice day.

“The comments I have heard have been from a variety of people both young and old. I think the feeling is that it was a tremendous day and why didn’t we do it sooner.”

Mayor of Dorchester, Cllr David Taylor, offered guided tours around the town, which he says were very well attended.

He added: “It was great to be able to demonstrate how wonderful our town is and what a beautiful Georgian high street we have.

“I’d like to thank everyone who came along.”

Visitors to Dorset County Museum were able to meet archaeologist, Dr. Clare Randall, from Context One Archaeological Service.

Her team will be leading a new archaeological investigation of a Roman Road at the back of the museum.

It comes as the museum is set to close at the end of this month to allow for a huge redevelopment. It won't be until 2020 that it is reopened to the public.

Mary Anne Edwards, Community Curator of Dorset County Museum said: "This will be on of our last events before we reopen and delighted to be part of it."

Gemma Hurlstone, Head of Visitor Services at Dorset County Museum, added: “I think it’s a great opportunity for all of the town’s heritage to come together and showcase the fabulous history of Dorchester to residents and visitors in the local area."

Darren and Helen Wells from Dorchester said: “It’s a good idea. We should really come more often. The fact that it's free makes it a good tourist attraction. It’s great to get to know the history of the area and how far it goes back.”

Andrew Betteridge attended the museum with his son Sebastien. He said: “We are from London but are visiting my brother. We didn’t know this was going on today, but we’ve come to have a look around. We’re very impressed and are enjoying ourselves.”