Attractions, gardens and green spaces are now reopening across Wiltshire. With new government guidelines announced, many places to visit are now able to open up their outside spaces to visitors once more. Attractions across Wiltshire have been working hard to put in place careful social distancing measures to ensure you have a safe visit – so there’s plenty to see, do and visit for a great day out this June or July!
Please remember to abide by government guidelines as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, and take a look at our advice on how to visit Wiltshire safely and responsibly before you arrive. Opening days and hours for activities and attractions in Wiltshire may change, so we would recommend you check directly with the individual attraction before visiting. Most attractions - even free outdoor spaces - now require you to book in advance, so please plan carefully before you travel to avoid disappointment.
Have a look below at our list of attractions reopening in Wiltshire this June and July. We will also be letting you know about the activities, food and drink, shops and accommodation providers reopening shortly.
Abbey House Gardens | Open Now
Now is the perfect time to visit this spectacular 5-acre garden in the centre of Malmesbury. The gardens are now open with a sculpture exhibition on display. The cafe is not open, but you are welcome to bring your own picnic. Find out more.
Bowood House and Gardens | Gardens Open Now for Season Ticket Holders
The Pleasure Grounds and Terrace Gardens at beautiful Bowood House near Calne are open for Season Ticket Holders only. Find out more.
Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm | Partially Open Now
Meet pigs, rabbits, chickens, ponies, sheep and more at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm. Currently the farm is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, but will be open everyday from 3 July! You'll need to book a timed entry slot in advance. Find out more.
Cotswolds Water Park | Carparks Open Now
All of the Cotswold Water Park Trust’s car parks are now open, allowing you to stretch your legs and explore this wonderful lake-filled landscape. Some of the businesses based at the Water Park are open, so please check directly before you travel. Find out more.
Cotswolds Wildlife Park and Gardens | Now Open
Cotswold Wildlife Park has reopened, with detailed new safety measures in place. The shop and restaurant will remain closed, but visitors are encouraged to bring picnics to enjoy outside, and outdoor kiosks will be open for snacks and drinks. Find out more.
Crofton Beam Engines | Open from 18 July
Discover one of the most important surviving remains of the Industrial Revolution in England at Crofton Beam Engines. The site will be open 10.30am-3.30pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays. Find out more.
Great Chalfield Manor | Gardens Now Open
The beautiful gardens at Great Chalfield Manor near Bradford on Avon are open once again. National Trust members and non-members both need to book in advance. Find out more.
Lacock Abbey | Gardens Now Open
The carpark and the grounds at picturesque Lacock Abbey are open for visitors. National Trust members and non-members both need to book in advance. Find out more.
Langford Lakes Nature Reserve | Now Open
Get outside and soak up the peacefulness of nature at Langford Lakes Nature Reserve. All Wiltshire Wildlife Trust reserves are open once again, and all are free to visit. The Trust are urging visitors to respect these sites as spaces for wildlife by staying on the paths and keeping dogs on the lead. Find out more.
Longleat | Safari Drive Through Now Open
Longleat's famous drive-through Safari Park has now reopened. Come along to see the lions, monkeys and zebras. Everyone will need to purchase tickets in advance, and Longleat have put together a great guidance video so that you know what to expect during your visit. Find out more.
Ludgershall Town Council Office | Planned Reopening in July
The historic town of Ludgershall sits on the edge of Salisbury Plain. Visitors can request tourist information from Ludgershall Town Council Office, which will be reopening from Monday 13 July. The office will be open 10am – 1pm, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday on an appointment system only - you will need to contact them in advance on 01264 391629 or email info@ludgershall-tc.gov.uk to arrange a time to visit.
Lydiard Park | Outside Spaces Now Open
The outside spaces at Lydiard Park near Swindon are open for exercise and recreation once more. Enjoy the natural beauty of the tranquil lake, rolling lawns and woodlands. Find out more.
Old Sarum | Now Open
Unearth over 2,000 years of history and find out how the Romans, Normans and Saxons all left their mark on the hillfort of Old Sarum, with fantastic views over the Wiltshire plains. Old Sarum has now reopened, and visitors (both English Heritage members and non-members) need to book your timed tickets in advance. Find out more.
The REME Museum | Open 8 July
Displaying the proud history of the Corps of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, the REME Museum will reopen again from Wednesday 8 July. Find out more.
Roves Farm Visitor Centre | Planned Reopening in July
Experience the environment, sights and sounds of a working livestock farm! Roves Farm are planning to reopen parts of the farm and some activities from 4 July. Initially, this will be for members only, with general tickets available from 11 July. Find out more.
Salisbury Cathedral | Open 8 July
Explore over 800 years of history at Salisbury Cathedral, one of the UK’s most iconic medieval buildings. The Cathedral is now open for public worship, and will be open for visitors from Wednesday 8 July. Cleaning and Covid-19 Safety measures have been put in place, including a one-way system for visitors. Booking in advance is essential for both worship and visits. Find out more.
Stonehenge | Planned Reopening in July
The iconic stone circle at Stonehenge will reopen from 4 July. The visitor experience will be a little different to normal, and you will need to book your timed tickets in advance. Member and Local Resident Pass holders need to book their free tickets in advance. Find out more.
Stourhead | Gardens Now Open
The breath-taking 18th century landscape garden at Stourhead (featuring lakeside walks, grottoes and classical temples) has reopened, although you will need to book your visit in advance. Find out more.
Visit Highworth Information & Craft Centre | Now Open
Visit Highworth Information & Craft Centre is now open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 9am until 2pm, to welcome you to the town of Highworth. The Museum is still closed. The Information Centre sells pottery, jewellery, textiles and more. Hand sanitiser is available on entry and exit, social distancing is in place and screens for contactless payment. Find out more.
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum | Now Open
Wander amongst 15,000 trees at this magical tree garden! Westonbirt The National Arboretum is open. Both visitors and members of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum need to pre-book tickets online for a specific time slot before coming to site. Find out more.
Wilton Windmill | Outdoor Spaces Now Open
Although Wilton Windmill is not currently open for guided tours, refreshments or flour sales, you can still visit the site. Admire the windmill from outside, and enjoy stunning views over the surrounding Wiltshire countryside. Find out more.
Check our blog over the coming weeks and months to find out more about what is open for you to visit here in Wiltshire.
Must-try games:
- https://2048games.cc (Perfect for puzzle lovers)
- https://clickspacebar.com (Quick and fun)
- https://catan.topicsdirect.com (Great with friends)
Hope you enjoy these as much as I do! 🎮