Heritage and history are first to escape from Covid lockdown
As Britain takes the first steps out of lockdown number three, English Heritage is opening outdoor attractions across the South West. Lili Stebbings reports
ANUMBER of English Heritage sites in Devon and Cornwall reopened their outdoor grounds to customers yesterday.
Across the country, 50 of the charity’s sites began welcoming back visitors. It comes as the Government’s second phase of the roadmap out of lockdown – which allows people to meet in groups of six, or two household groups in outdoor areas, given they stick to social distancing guidelines – is activated.
English Heritage was forced to close all of its sites for the third time due to the third national lockdown.
Outdoor spaces in Devon’s English Heritage sites, which include Totnes Castle, Berry Pomeroy Castle and Okehampton Castle, are now welcoming back visitors.
However, Dartmouth Castle will remain shut until May 17.
In Cornwall, those opening up were Pendennis Castle, Restormel Castle, St Mawes Castle, and Tintagel (above).
All sites will offer large outdoor spaces, such as historic gardens, extensive grounds and even a battlefield for people to enjoy, and although indoor spaces and cafes won’t be welcoming customers back until May 17, a number of the sites will be offering a takeaway service, and visitors are also welcome to bring a picnic to the grounds.
Kate Mavor, English Heritage’s Chief Executive, said: “We can’t wait to open up our sites again and to welcome people back.
“It’s been a long, long winter and our sites – with their wide open spaces, beautiful buildings, fun events and fascinating stories – will be the tonic we all need.”
Visits must be pre-booked before arrival and staff also have extra measures in place, such as enhanced cleaning and reduced capacity, to ensure a safe visit.
People will be allowed to visit in groups of six or two households – however you must keep a two-metre distance away from those you do not live with.
Although the ‘stay at home’ order ended yesterday, the government are asking people to still ‘minimise travel’ and remain in their local area, therefore it is advised not to travel long distances to visit an English Heritage site.
English Heritage is promising to launch its full events programme, including historical re-enactments, from June 21 when, all being well, all lockdown measures will be lifted, subject to a continuing fall in cases of coronavirus.