IT’S one of Southampton’s most historic buildings - and it’s slowly emerging from the shadows.

As previously reported by the Daily Echo, developers at God’s House Tower are turning the 700 year old gatehouse into what will become the city’s newest arts venue in a £2.4 million redevelopment project.

And now artists and developers behind the project are opening the ancient oak doors to the public for the first time since 2011 to show architectural plans and offer a series of specially commissioned events.

As part of Southampton’s first ever arts Fringe event - which runs until January 14 at sites across the city - God’s House Tower will be open for from today until October 30 with events designed to get people involved and inspired.

Director of a space arts Dan Crow said: “Our plans to reopen and reanimate GHT are gathering pace and it’s a great time to formally begin involving the local artistic community with GHT. The projects engages artists with the monument and asks them to respond both to 700 years of history and the future of GHT at a pivotal point in its new life.

“We are very much looking forward to seeing what happens next.”

Today artist Sarah Filmer will hold the next in her series of ‘knit the walls’ workshops, inspired by the city’s ancient walls.

On Wednesday October 26 there will be a public reading, a Q&A and an exhibition by ‘a space’ artists and Nuffield Theatre from their Laboratory’s Writers’ In Development scheme.

In Conversation on Thursday October 27 from 7pm – 9pm is run by Creative Southampton and is the third in a series of free events with guest speakers giving their wisdom on cultural subjects.

GHT: a reincarnation - I am Looking brings together eight Southampton based artists to explore the past, present and future of God’s House Tower. Their work will also be on display at three Mettricks coffee houses around the city.

The Little Stuff October 27 between 2pm and 4pm is for children and families and is a show inspired by British Art Show 8. Guests are invited to bring their own favourite toy and take part in the fun, presented by Theatre Biscuit.

700 Women will process through God’s House Tower on October 29 to add their stories to God's House Tower history. All women are invited to take part – there will be workshops and discussion events in the build up to the day.

A creative trade show will be held on October 28 showcasing work by designers and artists based at Tower House, the building next door to God's House Tower.

Please note that God’s House Tower will be closed on October 24 and 25.