Thousands flock to the Gardens following re-opening
More than 7,600 visitors flocked to the Gardens in the first month after we were allowed to open our doors, following lockdown.
Since we re-opened on June 17 after being closed for 13 weeks due to the coronavirus pandemic, visitors have been snapping up allocated slots to enjoy our 15 acres of grounds.
James Wheeler, chief executive, said members and visitors have welcomed the opportunity to visit the attraction as it is large enough for them to social distance and enjoy a tranquil morning or afternoon out.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of our members and visitors since we opened our gates again,” he said.
“We worked hard to ensure it is safe for people to come here and enjoy the greenery, which we know is good for our mental health, and it’s been heartening to see everyone really appreciating the gardeners’ hard work and the beautiful displays.
“We’ve been running at an average 72% of the reduced capacity we can have in the Gardens, which is encouraging, and now that the schools have closed for the summer break, we’re hoping to see even more families enjoying the wide open spaces here.
“As a precaution, we’re carrying out regular deep cleaning at touchpoints and we’ve also put hand sanitiser stations around the Gardens.”
Because of the success of the first phase of re-opening, the Gardens has now opened the children’s playground for limited periods and tea room is also now open reduced hours for takeaway drinks and packaged snacks, such as chocolate bars and crisps.
The tea room is open 10.30am-4pm weekdays and 10.30am-5pm weekends, while the playground is available from 10am-2pm. Restrictions are in place to safeguard visitors’ safety.
The Gardens are open daily from 10am until 6pm, subject to change, and to ensure there is effective social distancing, everyone must book a time slot in advance: non-members must buy tickets online to secure their 15-minute entry slot, while members must also book their entry time online, using their membership number.
Head to the booking site to secure your place. Slots are available for the forthcoming two-week period.
Anyone needing help with the booking should call the Gardens on 0121 454 1860.
Anyone with coronavirus symptoms or who has been in contact with someone with the virus in the previous 14 days is asked not to visit the Gardens until it is safe to do so.