Visitor attractions work on ways to open up again

Now lockdown is easing the many attractions across Sussex are looking at how they can re-open while still keeping staff and visitors safe.

Already you can go to the beach and even buy chips and an ice cream while you are there, as long as you stand in a socially distanced queue.

Our beautiful South Downs have, of course, remained open throughout, while anyone venturing to the countryside has been reminded to be responsible.

Visitors can still use the park at Petworth House if not see the stately home itself. Holiday resorts like Butlin’s in Bognor Regis and Haven at Pagham and St Leonards remain closed, with a review expected in July.

It is the same for funfairs like the rides on Bognor Regis seafront and Harbour Park in Littlehampton.

Arundel Castle can only be seen through virtual videos and Parham House is closed until next Easter.

Amberley Museum and Weald and Downland Living Museum at Singleton are closed until further notice. They are just two of many independently run museums which rely on entry fees to be able to keep going and both have set up justgiving pages and made a plea for donations on their websites. Weald and Downland said: “As an independent charity 90 per cent of our income comes from admissions, our café, shop, events and courses.

“With the loss of this income there is a serious financial impact on the museum.

“At this worrying time we are now dependant on the ongoing support of our members and donations.

“All donations, will make a big difference in enabling our work to continue to educate, inspire and delight future generations. We couldnt do it without you. Thank you!”

Amberley received emergency funding from Arts Council England to assist with essential costs for May, June and July. A spokesperson said: “This is very welcome news as the closure due to the coronavirus situation has had a devastating impact on the museum’s finances.

“This eases some of the immediate pressure, but the museum still faces significant financial challenges, both for the remaining period when we are closed (however long that may be) but also when we reopen.” Trustees and staff thanked members and supporters for donating to the Just Giving campaign and continuing to renew memberships. Behind the scenes the jewels in our heritage are working out ways they can open up their doors once again.

The National Trust has already opened Standen House and gardens in East Grinstead and Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex, but visitors must book their tickets in advance. A spokesperson said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for you to visit the places you love, and enjoy the landscapes and nature we’ve all missed.

“We’ve already reopened more than 200 coast and countryside car parks and from June 3, we’re opening a small number of gardens and parklands in England and Northern Ireland.

“To ensure the safety of our visitors, staff, volunteers and local communities, we’ve reduced the number of people we can welcome at one time and you’ll need to book your visit in advance.

“Sadly, we can’t open everywhere at once, but we’re working hard to open more places as soon as possible. “To say thank you to our nation’s key workers and all they have done for us, we’re prioritising the first and last timeslots each day for their use. Please share in our thanks and leave these free. “If you or someone in your group are a key worker, please take the opportunity to book these early and late timeslots.”

English Heritage is hoping to reopen some of its staffed sites from early July, in line with government guidance. Kate Mavor, chief executive, said: “There’ll be several different phases of reopening, and we’ll let you know which sites are opening as soon as we can.

“In the meantime, around 200 of our free-to-enter sites are now open, including places like Iron Bridge, Caister Roman Fort, Maiden Castle and many parts of Hadrian’s Wall.

“Right now, staff and volunteers across the country are working hard to adapt our sites to prepare them for reopening.

“Your visits will be as enjoyable as ever, and there will be new measures in place to make sure that everyone can observe social distancing. “We’re looking forward to welcoming you back.”