Weald & Downland Living Museum confirms its reopening plans

The Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester will be reopening on Monday, March 29 to members only before opening to the wider public from Monday, April 12.
Simon WardellSimon Wardell
Simon Wardell

The museum looks forward to welcoming visitors back to enjoy the much-loved outdoor site, which is set in 40 acres within the beautiful South Downs National Park, says museum director Simon Wardell.

As a thank you to members, the museum will open to members only from March 29-April 11 as a green space. In line with the government’s lockdown easing, they will then open to the general public on April 12 as an outdoor attraction – all based on government guidance subject to review, as and when required.

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As a green space, the museum’s café, shop and historic houses will remain closed. However takeaway options will be available. From Monday, April 12 as an outdoor attraction, the museum will be able to interpret the museum more fully although the historic houses remain closed.

As part of the reopening strategy and to ensure social distancing restrictions can be maintained, entry to the museum will be through timed, pre-booked tickets only. Tickets will be available to book online from Monday, March 22 and will need to be booked in advance before arrival. This applies to members as well as the general public.

Simon said: “This has been another challenging period for the Weald & Downland Living Museum, but we are thrilled to be able to get the wheels in motion for reopening our site in the coming weeks.

“As a thank you for the loyalty and continued support of our valued members, we wanted to offer them an opportunity to return to the museum and enjoy the green space before we open to the public. As a charity, ticket sales and memberships are our core source of income so the support of members over the last 12 months has been incredibly important in helping sustain the museum.

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“I want to take this opportunity to thank all supporters of the museum, from members, volunteers, staff and those in the local community who have shown continued support - Without you, the museum wouldn’t be in the position it is today.

“The team at the museum will now be reviewing the museum’s activities and events for the remainder of 2021, working in line with government advice and guidance.

“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and patience as we gradually adapt to our new opening arrangements and online booking process. We look forward to welcoming you all back very soon.”

“The wellbeing of museum members, visitors, volunteers and staff is of the upmost importance, so the museum has worked hard to ensure the correct safety measures are in place and that there is a robust social distancing plan that adheres to government guidelines.

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“The museum will continue to monitor government guidance during this time and will adapt opening arrangements and policies to adhere to any new requirements. Therefore please keep an eye on our website and social media channels for any further updates.”

For more information, visit www.wealddown.co.uk.