24 June 2020
While COVID-19 is having a drastic impact on UK tourism, there is still plenty of news to be found. We’re doing our best to keep you updated, via various means, on some of the best examples of how tourism businesses in the destinations we represent are rising to the challenge.
#newsin30seconds
Trentham Monkey Forest reopens
Popular tourist attraction Trentham Monkey Forest is re-opening to the public from June 25. This follows the recent government announcement relating to all zoos and safari parks in the UK. The Monkey Forest decided to delay reopening to ensure their attraction is extra safe for visitors and the monkeys, and has introduced some new rules and guidance for customers to follow. Visitor numbers will also be restricted to ensure social distancing measures.
Beneath the stars – under canvas after the lockdown
Once we can all travel freely again, life under canvas – or in a Shepherd’s Hut and even a treehouse come to that – offers a perfect self-distancing, post-isolation break. So this could be the summer to head off on a camping holiday to rediscover all the natural beauty that England has to offer.
‘Taste At Home’ chocolate-tasting experiences
After 20 years as a chef, James Walter used rehabilitation time following a spinal accident to delve into the chemistry of cocoa and planning Staffordshire’s first bean to bar operation. In 2017, Seed Chocolate was born. Based in Stoke-on-Trent, and sourcing ethically from family farms and cooperatives around the world, they create award-winning craft chocolate. James also offers bespoke ‘chocolate experiences’ and, during lockdown, he’s gone virtual: his ‘Taste At Home’, via Zoom, offering a dark chocolate tasting experience..
New interactive Anglo-Saxon gallery at Tamworth Castle
Building work is now complete at Tamworth Castle, in Staffordshire, for a new ‘Battle and Tribute’ exhibition that will transform the top floor of the castle to an Anglo-Saxon, interactive tribute. The interpretation elements of the exhibition will be completed subject to Covid-19 guideline changes; and it will be opened when Covid-19 restrictions allow.
Revisiting the “cradle of cricket”
England will play three Tests in the space of 21 days when the international season gets under way in July. The series against West Indies will begin on July 8 at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, Hampshire. The choice of venue for the first live cricket match on UK soil this year is one of those accidental twists of fate, that once again turns the spotlight onto Hampshire: the so-called “cradle of cricket”
Skegness’s first ‘pop up’ drive-in cinema
With the UK set for a socially-distanced summer, classic American-style drive-in cinemas look like being a big hit for 2020. Heading to Skegness in Lincolnshire from July will be the MoonLight Drive-in Cinema, with two showings already planned – Grease on July 3, and Back to the Future on July 4. Tickets are priced £32.93 to £38.32 per car
Fishing for success in Hampshire
Located on arguably the most prestigious fishing river in the world, the River Test, The Grosvenor is a favourite accommodation for keen fishermen. The imposing Georgian listed building takes pride of place on Stockbridge High Street; and renovations to the bedrooms are currently taking shape. While all are individually designed and styled, there are also plans to unveil ‘Tap Cottage’ later this year: a neighbouring standalone dwelling, offering three new ensuite bedrooms with king-sized beds