The National Trust has played host to its five millionth visit since embarking on a carefully managed reopening programme in June. The introduction of a mandatory online pre-booking system, new one-way routes through its properties and increased hygiene procedures are just some of the alterations made to ensure visitor and staff safety.
Castle Ward in County Down and Suffolk’s Sutton Hoo are two of the latest sites to reopen, with the Trust now having opened 31 of its houses, more than 135 gardens, 194 cafes and 100 shops.
National Trust introduces mandatory online booking as gradual reopening begins
Each week since the first raft of properties were reopened on 13th July has seen more and more begin to welcome visitors again, with several more renowned locations set to open their doors this week.
Rising reopenings
National Trust sites set to reopen in the coming week include:
Chartwell, Kent 14 September
Berrington Hall, Herefordshire 14 September
Wallington, Northumberland 14 September
Buckland Abbey, Devon 14 September
Lanhydrock, Cornwall 14 September
Hatchlands Park, Surrey 15 September
Tredegar House, Newport 16 September
Trerice, Cornwall 16 September
Montacute House, Somerset 17 September
Cragside, Northumberland 18 September
“Reaching five million visits this summer feels like a big milestone,” says John Orna-Ornstein, the Trust’s director of culture and engagement. “We’re reopening more every day and we’re so grateful to our members and visitors for their support and patience. We’re listening to their feedback and always looking at ways to make booking and visiting easier.
“Every person through our doors is helping to look after these historic buildings, collections and gardens, and to make sure we can carry out state-of-the-art conservation projects.”
