The National Trust has announced that many of their beautiful gardens, parklands and coastal locations will be open to the public for free in a bid to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors during the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.
While their pay-for-entry indoor sites – including houses, cafés and shops –will have to close by Friday 20th March following government advice, they aim to keep many outdoor spaces open.
In an official statement on their website, the organisation said: "Following the Prime Minister's advice on Monday 16th March, the National Trust's Director-General Hilary McGrady said that our pay-for-entry sites including houses, cafés and shops, will close by this Friday 20th March.
"We'll work, where possible, to keep as many of our gardens and parklands open, free of charge, alongside coast and countryside, to encourage the nation to enjoy open space, while observing social distancing measures."
If you were planning on heading to your local National Trust for some soul-soothing fresh air, you will still be able to do so. In a time where many of us might be feeling anxious or overwhelmed, heading outside is a surefire way to boost our spirits.
Hilary McGrady, the National Trust's Director-General, said: "The National Trust was founded 125 years ago for the benefit of the entire nation. We want to honour our mission – to enable people and nature to thrive. Over the coming weeks we will do all that we can to keep on providing public benefit through caring for places and giving people access wherever possible."
The information above is correct at the time of publication. Advice may change so stay abreast with guidance.
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