HISTORIC East Riddlesden Hall is reopening in November.

The 17th-century National Trust property, which has been closed since the start of lockdown in March, will open its doors once again on November 14.

Various measures will be in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Visitors will need to wear face coverings inside the hall and some one-way systems will operate.

Visitors will once again be able to visit East Riddlesden Hall near Keighley from early November. Starting from the Saturday 14th November, the house will open with new safety measures in place, including wearing face masks indoors and some one-way systems. The café is also expected to reopen, with measures including table service and extra outdoor seating.

East Riddlesden Hall was closed in March due to the coronavirus outbreak. Although some larger National Trust properties have already reopened, the size of East Riddlesden meant extra precautions had to be taken to ensure social distancing measures could be observed.

Craig Best, West Yorkshire Operations Manager for the National Trust, said, “It was a really difficult decision not to reopen East Riddlesden Hall earlier as we know how important this property is to the local community. Safety has always been our priority, and the size of East Riddlesden Hall meant we just couldn’t open during peak season, as we wouldn’t be able to cope with too many visitors. Financially it’s been very tough for us to make that call. Our staff and volunteers are eager to get back and welcome visitors.”

East Riddlesden Hall’s walled gardens have many small entrances, so visitors are asked to wait patiently and observe social distancing. Inside the house, visitors will need to wear a mask. Hand sanitiser will be available and toilet facilities will be cleaned more regularly.

Craig Best added, “We’re looking forward to opening. However, we will be following government advice very closely and our opening hours may need to change. We’d always advise visitors to check our website and social media when planning their visits.”

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Notes to editor:

1. East Riddlesden Hall, gardens and lower fields will be open from 14th November, weekends only.

2. East Riddlesden Hall, gardens and lower fields will be closed from 21st December until 9th January, to avoid a Christmas rush.

3. Visitors will not need to book their visit to East Riddlesden Hall but are asked to consider coming earlier or later in the day to avoid peak times.

4. Updates will be shared on our website and social media. Please check this before visiting. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/east-riddlesden-hall