The team at the historic house near Carnforth worked with a coach tour operator for a mock group visit to test its Covid-19 safeguards.
By completing the relevant Covid-19 risk assessments and adhering to the Government’s public health guidance, the attraction and coach company, Bibby’s of Ingleton, have now been awarded VisitEngland’s new ‘We’re Good To Go’ industry standard.
Lucy Arthurs, estate manager at Leighton Hall, said: “We literally took every step our visitors would. We’re now confident guests can relax and enjoy their coach journey followed by our house tour, gardens and tea room in complete safety and comfort.
“This was a hugely important step for us and Bibby’s to re-gain our confidence. The great feedback confirms we’re safe and ready to welcome back groups, which everyone here is thrilled about.”
“Day trips are very important to a lot of people, so it’s wonderful to give them the chance to relax and socialise among Leighton’s history once again.”
Lucy Arthurs, estate manager at Leighton Hall
What to expect from a group visit?
Leighton Hall and the coach operator now have the measures in place to cover social distancing and hygiene including masks, hand sanitiser, one way systems, ventilation and cleaning, plus the Track and Trace system in operation.
All guides who conduct tours of the hall will use perspex visors so visitors can easily hear and see from a safe distance.
Leighton’s expansive outdoor space means social distancing is easily maintained on a visit, with all tours taking a maximum of ten to 12 people around at once.
Lucy continued: “Opening up after lockdown isn’t just critical for the survival of tourism businesses like ourselves and Bibby’s. Destinations and coach operators working together is the only way to ensure we have a future to build on.
“Our customers need to get out and about, reconnect and enjoy life again; this is vital to people’s physical and mental health.”
About Leighton Hall
Home to the Gillow family, the earliest records of the hall date back to 1246, showing there has been 26 owners throughout this time.
There are no roped off areas at Leighton Hall, guests are invited to sit on the ancient chairs while learning more about the family’s history and habits. This includes taking a seat around the 18th century dining table or even playing a tune on the Concert Steinway piano.
Groups of up to 24 people are welcome to book visits on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
For day visitors, including families (two adults and up to three children), the attraction is currently open on Thursday and Sunday afternoons. The tearooms, toilets, playground, gardens and woodland walk are all open for visitors.
For more information about the hall, including group and family visits, go to www.leightonhall.co.uk.
