Ancient site back open for business

The National Trust has announced the reopening of Avebury following covid-19 lockdown.

Businesses and the trust's own facilities at the historic attraction are welcoming visitors.

Eva Stuetzenberger, Operations Manager at National Trust at Avebury, said: “It was a tough time for all of us.

“It’s a huge relief to be able to welcome people back to Avebury.  Re-opening hasn’t been as straightforward as it might sound, though, and was a real learning curve when it came to implementing Government and National Trust guidelines to ensure everybody’s safety.

"The visitor experience on site has changed in many ways, but the feedback we have received so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with people appreciating the site more than ever before.”

Parish council chair Stephen Stacey said: “We’re delighted to have our shops and pub open again and are very grateful for the financial sacrifice their owners accepted for almost four months on public health grounds.

"Now all we need is for visitors to use them – whilst of course respecting the formal requirement to socially distance and, in a week’s time, wear face coverings.”

Avebury, part of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site, is the site of the largest stone circle in the world and is within easy access of a number of Wiltshire towns.

It is a few miles - and a short bus ride - from Swindon.  Part of the village, along with its archaeology, are looked after by the National Trust.

Unlike many National Trust sites, Avebury does not require visitors to pre-book.

Social distancing measures are in place across the visitor route, and the restaurant is currently only doing takeaway food and drinks with seating across the Old Farmyard. 

The Trust advises visiting the website - www.nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury - beforehand.