On 29 March, the legal “stay at home” requirement in England will lapse, replaced by “stay local”.
While it’s not clear exactly how far “local” extends, as it’s guidance rather than law, it should pave the day for some day trips – as long as you’re back by midnight, as overnight stays aren’t permitted until 12 April.
Here are some of the best days out across England.
English Heritage
This week, English Heritage announced that 50 of its properties would open from 29 March in anticipation of the “stay at home” restriction being eased.
The charity said: “All sites scheduled to open on 29 March enjoy large outdoor spaces, such as historic gardens, extensive grounds and even a battlefield, with plenty of room for social distancing.”
Sites reopening include Charles Darwin’s former home, Down House in Kent; Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire; Whitby Abbey in North Yorkshire; and Housesteads Roman fort on Hadrian’s Wall.
However, Stonehenge will remain closed until 12 April.
National Trust
All of National Trust’s gardens, parks and countryside have remained open in England and Wales since the beginning of the third lockdown.
Some highlights include Norfolk’s Blicking Estate; Biddulph Grange in Staffordshire; and Hidcote in the Cotswolds.
Alton Towers Gardens, Staffordshire
The theme park’s elegant gardens will reopen on 29 March “for local families to enjoy”. Capacity will be limited and tickets must be pre-booked. The main theme park and its self-contained accommodation will reopen on 12 April.
Sewerby Hall and Gardens, Yorkshire
Sewerby Hall, a Grade 1 listed country house in Yorkshire, will reopen the gardens, café for takeaway, play area and toilets on 27 March.
Drifters, nationwide
Boat hire company Drifters will allow single households to hire a canal boat to explore local waterways for the day from 29 March. It offers day hire from 17 boat yards across England and Wales, including those in Shropshire, Worcestershire and Stratford Upon Avon. Don’t panic if you’re new to boating, there will be lessons in steering, mooring up and working the locks.
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland
The 1,400-year-old Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland will reopen to visitors on 29 March, with the grounds open for visitors. It dates back to the Normans, and was once owned by the monarchy.
The Wave, Bristol
If you’re too far from the coast to go surfing properly, head to Bristol’s The Wave. It’s an inland surf lagoon that churns out artificial waves all year round to suit every level of surfer. It reopens on 29 March.
Bolton Castle Gardens, Yorkshire
The 14th century Bolton Castle reopens its gardens from 29 March. Visitors can wander the gardens, including the maze and vineyard, for excellent views across the Wensleydale valley.
