Guide The The Weald & Downland Living Museum confirms reopening after “most challenging” time ever
Attractions
The Weald & Downland
Living Museum has confirmed it will be reopening on Monday, June 22 to members only before opening to the wider public from Monday, July 6.
The museum looks forward to welcoming visitors back to enjoy the outdoor site, which is set in 40 acres within the beautiful South Downs National Park. Museum director Simon Wardell said: “The wellbeing of visitors, volunteers and staff is of the upmost importance, so the museum has worked hard to ensure the correct safety measures are in place and that there is a robust social distancing plan that adheres to government guidelines.”
As part of their reopening strategy and to ensure social distancing restrictions can be maintained, entry to the museum will be through timed, pre-booked tickets only. Tickets will be available to book online from Wednesday, June 17 and will need to be booked in advance by midnight the day before arrival. This applies to members as well as the general public. There will be a take-away service available onsite which includes hot and cold refreshments. Visitors are also encouraged to bring their own picnics to enjoy in the scenic grounds of the museum where additional outdoor and undercover space has been organised.
Further health and safety protocols have also been put in place including additional signage, wayfinding markers, queuing systems, safety screens and contactless transactions, as well as increased cleaning and sanitisation.
Simon added: “To ensure those visiting can continue to enjoy the fascinating collection of historic buildings found on site which include a medieval farmstead, Victorian school and working watermill as well as many rural homes, museum staff will be on hand to assist with the flow of visitors whilst also providing information about the historic buildings.
“The museum will keep as many of its buildings open as possible, however the Gateway Gallery will be closed and there will be limited play items available in the family activity hubs.”
Simon added: “This has been the most challenging period in the history of the Weald & Downland Living Museum, but we are thrilled to be able to reopen our extraordinary site in the coming weeks. As a thank you for the loyalty and continued support of our valued members, we wanted to offer them an opportunity to return to the museum before we open to the public. As a charity, ticket sales and memberships are our core source of income so the support of members over the last few months has been incredibly important to us all.
“Over the last few weeks our team has worked extremely hard to implement significant social distancing and safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of our visitors. We appreciate everyone’s support, understanding and patience as we adapt to our new opening arrangements and online booking process. We look forward to welcoming you all back very soon. “The museum will continue to monitor government guidance during this time and will adapt their opening arrangements to adhere to any new requirements.”