What is open and closed across Dorset during second lockdown

With shorter days and longer nights, the need to get outside for some Vitamin D and fresh air is more important than ever during these cold Autumn days.

As we progress into lockdown two, we have rounded up information on some of the visitor attractions and beauty spots in our area to help you get outside safely.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

A spokesman for Abbotsbury Tourism pleased to confirm that Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens will remain open for visitors to enjoy fresh air and exercise during the new month-long lockdown across England.

He said: "The Gardens can be enjoyed safely by visitors with the safety measures that have been in place since reopening in June, including social distancing, enhanced cleaning and limits on visitor numbers.

"Mandatory pre-booking remains in place, and those wishing to visit the gardens must book a time slot online at www.abbotsburytickets.co.uk"

Beaches in Dorset Council area

They are open as per the first lockdown with visitors reminded to abide by social distancing rules.

Two metres apart is still the best advice for those outside your household bubble. Don't put yourself at risk if you feel the beach is too busy.

Corfe Castle

Managed by National Trust, the historic castle is currently closed during the second national lockdown but its car park, takeaway café and toilets at Castle View will remain open.

Government guidance states that outdoor parks and spaces remain open for daily exercise but people must adhere to social distancing measures and respect the local environment and safety of local residents.Durlston Country Park

The park, car parks and all paths remain open and rangers will be on-site every day.

The shop is closed but they are taking orders for Friends of Durlston Christmas Cards and Calendars by post. Also, logs are available for collection by the bag or delivery by the trailer load.

Takeaway drinks will be available between 10am and 3pm. This is just for a trial period until Sunday when it will be reviewed.

Off-road buggies remain available by pre-booking only. The visitor centre is closed.

Dorset Council parks

A spokesman for Dorset Council said: “Dorset Council-run play areas are now open.

“Please use the parks responsibly and keep at least a metre apart from people not in your household. If the park is busy, please come back later.

Hardy's Birthplace and Thorncombe Woods

A spokesman for Thorncombe Woods confirmed that the site near Dorchester and its car park are fully open.

He added: “The under the greenwood tree café is open for takeaway service from 10am Saturday and Sundays (weather permitting).  For weekday opening, please see updates on their Facebook page.

“The toilets will be accessible during Cafe opening and possibly at other times depending on Ranger staff availability.

“Mobility Trampers are available to hire Monday to Friday with advanced booking (01305 224620). All events are postponed until further notice.

“The National Trust run shop and NT Hardy's Cottage are still closed until further notice.”

Kingston Lacy

This popular spot was fully closed during the first lockdown. But this time the garden, parkland, take away café and toilets at Kingston Lacy are open.

However, you will need to book your visit in advance. Visitors are warned that if they turn up without a booking, they WILL be turned away.

Kingston Maurward

The popular attraction will be closing its doors to members of the public in days due to coronavirus restrictions - and may not reopen until the spring.

Kingston Maurward Animal Park and Gardens, based in the grounds of the college outside Dorchester, has made the decision to close to the public due to the recent bad weather and continued restrictions on indoor activities.

Luke Rake, principal and chief executive of Kingston Maurward, said: "Due to the onset of poor weather, and continued restrictions on the use of indoor areas such as the café and soft play areas, we have taken the decision to close the Animal Park and Gardens until next spring, with effect from the close of business on Saturday, October 31.

"If government guidelines relax regarding indoor mixing, we may reopen earlier but at this time our target is March 1, 2021. This will also allow us time to improve facilities and your experience next year too.

"We would like to thank all our visitors for their custom and support during 2020, and hope to see you again soon.

"If you have a season ticket, you may automatically add 12 months to its expiry date so that next year you gain full value.

"If you would like a refund instead, please contact us directly via marketing@kmc.ac.uk and we will ensure this is done for you to the value of the remaining time on the ticket."

Lulworth Castle and Durdle Door

Car parks at Lulworth Castle, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door will remain open.

While Lulworth Castle is closed, the park will remain open and the cafe for takeaways.

Mobile catering services at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove will remain open for takeaway refreshments.

Cafe overlooking Lulworth Cove will remain open for a takeaway service. Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre will close.

Moors Valley Country Park

The site will remain open during lockdown but visitors are reminded to follow social distancing measures and to wash their hands.

The car park is open, but with reduced capacity, and will be closed during busy times.

Facilities which are open include toilets, the play trail, play areas, walking and cycling trails and the takeaway kiosk.

But many facilities are closed, including play structures, the gift shop, Go Ape, the visitor centre, cycle hire, the railway, golf and ice cream kiosk.

RSPB Arne

The car park, trails and toilets are open through lockdown.

But the visitor centre, hides and shop are closed. Takeaway refreshments are still available.

Events are cancelled and visitors should obey guidance on group sizes, social distancing and hygiene.

People are also advised to wear a face covering inside toilets unless exempt.

Studland Bay

The beauty spot was shut during the first national lockdown but with less strict Government guidance, the car parks at Studland are open.

This means car parks at Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach are open from 9am-5pm.

Toilets open at Shell Bay, Knoll Beach and Middle Beach are also open, with Knoll Beach Café open with limited takeaway menu and no seating 9.30am-4.30pm.

Symondsbury Estate

The popular West Dorset estate has partly closed its doors during lockdown but a number of sites remain open.

Symondsbury Kitchen will be open between Thursday until Monday from 10am to 3pm for takeaway lunches, cakes and pastries, and hot and cold drinks. Its food shop will remain open during the same time period to support the local community with essentials, food and drink.

Its walking trails and free car park remain open and there is space to roam and places to sit while adhering to social distancing measures.

Swanage Pier

Swanage Pier has been closed to visitors since Thursday, November 5.

Upton House and Country Park

The park, public toilets, play areas, dog wash and car parks will remain open, BUT the house and indoor facilities will be closed.

The Tea Rooms counter is open on a daily basis for a limited takeaway service only (no seating), from 9.30am to 4pm, with strict guidelines in place for queuing and purchasing refreshments.

Please wear a face covering when using the Tea Rooms Takeaway counter service.