FAMOUS Romsey gardens are set to welcome back more visitors as part of a phased-reopening.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Lane, began its first phase of reopening to members on June 8, where a pre-booking system was used to help avoid long queues and face-to-face payments.
Now it has been revealed the public can get their hands on limited number of online tickets to the Gardens as of yesterday, which will see the attraction will close at 6pm.
It will also see take-away refreshments made available to visitors.
READ: Popular beauty spot in Romsey could be shut for weeks >>>
Leader of Hampshire County Council, cllr Keith Mans said: “Visitors with annual membership to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens have been enjoying the beautiful, tranquil surroundings on site, thanks to the thorough preparations made by staff to ensure the venue could safely reopen.
"I was delighted to hear how well the first phase of re-opening went last week, and it was great to see them back.
"This means we will soon be able to welcome back more visitors, now including those without membership.”
A number of measures remain in place to maintain safe social distancing for staff and visitors.
This includes reduced accessible parking, and, while some toilets will be open, the visitor pavilion, café, restaurant, gift shop, exhibition gallery and play areas remain closed until further notice.
READ: Romsey residents react to tree being saved from the axe >>>
However, takeaway hot and cold drinks will be available to buy from the Tilia Tree Café, and the Munch Buggy at the Visitor Pavilion, between 10am and 5pm every day.
Pre-wrapped food, such as sandwiches and salads can also be bought; customers are encouraged to make card and contactless payments.
Cllr Mans added: “While we all continue to follow Government advice to control the virus, the Gardens’ 180 acres of world-renowned, trees, shrubs and hardy plants, offer people of all ages the perfect space in which to walk, explore and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.
"We also hope to re-introduce further services and facilities for our visitors as soon as guidance and circumstances permit.”
This comes after the Gardens were temporarily closed to the public at the end of March following Government guidance on essential travel during the coronavirus outbreak.
For information about Sir Harold Hillier Gardens visit: http://www.hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here