Johnstown Castle members promised time extension on annual tickets as gardens due to reopen
The gardens and lake walks at Johnstown Castle will re-open this Wednesday, for the enjoyment of members living within 5km of the historic attraction.
The opening of the parklands and gardens is part of with phase one of the Government’s recently announced road map for the managed re-opening of the country, with admission passes set to be extended to compensate for the duration of the closure.
A number of measures have been implemented at the property, for the safety and welfare of staff, including the introduction of a one-way system around the grounds.
New directional signage has been erected in the grounds and people are asked to observe two metre physical distancing rules at all times.
During the first phase of re-opening, the Irish Heritage Trust which manages Johnstown Castle Gardens and Estate, will assess how the new measures are working.
From Wednesday, May 20, the opening hours will be Wednesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, with the last admission at 4 p.m.
‘In re-opening our gardens and lake walks, our priority at all times will be for our members to enjoy the grounds safely and for the duration of this Phase 1, we respectfully ask that members who have been cocooning for the past few months are given priority during the hours of 9a.m.– 11 a.m. each day’ said Heritage Trust CEO Anne O’ Donoghue.
‘As you will no doubt be aware from the Government’s Roadmap for the phased re-opening of business, social and cultural activities, the re-opening of museums, retail and indoor restaurant/cafés are planned for later phases, subject to ongoing public health advice.
‘We are working hard to ensure that we have all the necessary measures in place at Johnstown Castle and will keep members updated regarding the schedule for the re-opening of these elements’
The Visitor Centre will be open only to facilitate entry to the grounds on presentation of a current membership card to a member of staff at the reception desk.
Queueing at busy times will be managed in line with social distancing requirements and members of the Johnstown Castle team will assist with any queries that people have.
Ms. O’ Donoghue said the Trust is very grateful for the continuing support of members, especially during the past few months of closure. ‘We are pleased to confirm that for those who held an active membership while we were closed, we will extend the annual membership for the period of closure at the expiry date.’
The Head Gardener at Johnstown has been busy caring for the gardens and grounds in anticipating of welcoming members of the public back to the gardens which are currently in full bloom.‘We are delighted to be sharing this special place once again with you and hope that you will get great pleasure again from its beauty and tranquillity’, said the CEO.