Coronavirus: National Trust to open gardens and parks for free

The National Trust is to open as many of its gardens and parks for free during the coronavirus crisis.

The charity's pay-for-entry sites including houses, cafes and shops will close by tomorrow (March 20).

A National Trust spokesman said: "The National Trust is continuing to work hard to keep open spaces accessible to people while it closes houses, shops and cafes to restrict the spread of coronavirus.

"This will take time and we hope by this Friday (March 20) all properties will have a plan in place as to what will be available to the public.

"Many factors have to be considered when continuing to open, including whether the garden or park allows enough space for adequate social distancing.

"We will try to keep as many open spaces available as possible but this is a changing situation and we are strictly following Government advice so please keep checking our website for updated information and always check the site before you visit any of our places.

"The wellbeing of our staff, volunteers and visitors remains our top concern."

Ickworth in Horringer is the nearest National Trust property with parkland to Bury St Edmunds.

A notice on its website said visitor facilities will close from tomorrow (March 20) and outdoor spaces will remain open.

Today (March 19), its house and play area will be closed but parkland, gardens, West Wing cafe and shop are open.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth