Browsing category: Warwick Castle Reopens
WARWICK CASTLE TO REOPEN SATURDAY 6 JUNE
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Warwick Castle will be amongst the first UK attractions to reopen its gates to the public following easing of lockdown restrictions. While indoor areas remain off-limits for the time being, the extensive grounds and gardens around the iconic Castle will provide a welcome destination for visitors keen to take a day trip away from home.
From Saturday 6th June, guests will be able to explore over 64 acres of stunning ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped gardens, including riverside strolls along the Avon and the famous Peacock Garden with its resident flock of over 20 peacocks.
More adventurous visitors can climb the Conqueror’s Fortress, which is the highest point of the grounds, to capture incredible views across the beautiful Midlands countryside and Warwick itself.
Whilst the usual shows and indoor attractions aren’t reopening just yet, the castle’s renowned birds of prey will still be undertaking their daily exercise and training for the full reopening, so visitors may be lucky enough to see them whilst on site.
COVID-secure processes in place
A number of key processes have been implemented to ensure visitor safety including:
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· Increased health and safety procedures for enhanced cleaning of all areas including toilets and seating, introduction of one-way systems supported by clear way finding, social distancing markers and sanitiser stations
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· Entry will be dependent on advance online booking only, with availability subject to new daily maximum capacities to ensure allowance for social distancing. Temperature spot-checks may be carried out.
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· Contactless payment for food and drink, from takeaway outlets offering snacks, hot and cold drinks and ice cream
· Activity kits on sale for families to find all the fun while exploring the outside areas
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· Toilets will be available to guests on a one-in-one-out basis
‘Baby steps’ to full reopening
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As part of global leisure company Merlin Entertainments, the castle has benefited from advice from colleagues across the globe, including those in countries where restrictions have already eased allowing attractions to reopen, on how best to reopen in line with new safety requirements ensuring the safety of all visitors.
Warwick Castle initially closed on 21st March 2020 along with tourism businesses across the UK.
Divisional Director Nick Blofeld says, “After ten weeks of closure, we can’t wait to reopen our gates and share the beauty of the Castle’s outdoor spaces with guests again. Warwick Castle uniquely offers a rich history and over 60 acres of rolling grounds, we are anticipating our loyal guests across the Midlands and beyond will be really excited to return to the Castle and have a taste of normality, even if it is two swords apart.”
“We are delighted to be amongst the first attractions able to reopen to the public, albeit on a limited basis for the time being. These first ‘baby steps’ are a really positive sign for us, the wider industry and indeed the general public and we can now start to rediscover everything that this country has to offer.”
Opening exclusively for the first weekend on 6th and 7th June to Warwick Castle Annual Pass and Merlin Annual Pass holders only, the castle grounds will be open to all guests from 8th June onwards on a pre-booked only basis.