Museum unveils its plans for phased reopening
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, way-finding 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 collection of 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.”