One of Bristol's most renowned and celebrated visitor attractions has announced when it will reopen.
SS Great Britain has been closed for more than 100 days, as has nearly every attraction across the UK.
The period of closure has had a "huge and devastating impact" on the financial position of the Trust which runs the venue, according to a statement shared on its website.
More than 90 per cent of its income comes from visitors and it is expected to lose around £2m between March and September.
But this week the Trust was handed a helping hand in the form of a vital grant of £435,998 from Arts Council England, which was awarded just one week before the planned reopening of the famous ship.
SS Great Britain will reopen on July 18 with a number of measures in place to protect staff and visitors - just one day before it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
What measures will be in place?
A range of measures are being introduced to provide a safe, enjoyable visit that enables social distancing at every step of the visitor experience.
Pre-bookable time slots will be available on SS Great Britain's website from tomorrow (July 11) to ensure visitors arrive at staggered intervals throughout the day, ensuring it won’t get crowded.
Perspex screens have been added to counters and till points while new hand sanitiser points have been installed around the site.
Where required, one-way routes have been introduced on site with social distancing markers and signage in place.
All staff and volunteers welcoming visitors will be trained to ensure visitor safety.
A more comprehensive list of FAQs will be available on the venue's website tomorrow.
Paul Chibeba, Head of Communications and Deputy Creative Director at SS Great Britain, said: "We’re thrilled to be re-opening in time for the SS Great Britain’s 50th anniversary of returning to Bristol.
"We’re itching to welcome Bristolians back. Their support will be incredibly important to the charitable Trust and we’ll make sure everyone has a fun visit.
"Every ticket remains valid for a full year of unlimited revisits, so they offer particularly good value for money for locals.
"There’s plenty of outside space in the dockyard and seating, so do bring along a picnic, or make use of the cafes which will be serving take-away hot drinks, snacks and old-style fish and chips."
