Essendon has tapped into its spiritual home ahead of round 13's 150-year anniversary celebration game against Carlton on Friday night.

The Bombers were put through their final paces in front of 400 fans at Windy Hill in chilly, wintry conditions.

Fans were treated to a 45-minute training session which included on-ground interviews with captain Dyson Heppell and senior coach Ben Rutten before players spent time after training signing autographs and getting pictures with members and supporters.

See all the images from Thursday's Windy Hill captain's run below.