It feels like lockdown has been going on forever. But - somehow - it's now June, and summer is on the horizon. As the UK readies itself to reopen, it's been announced that Thorpe Park, Alton Towers and Chessington World Of Adventures will reopen on 4 July.
All three theme parks are owned by Merlin Entertainment, and announced on their websites yesterday (4 June) that they would be re-opening on that date next month.
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On the Thorpe Park website, the following message was posted: "The health and safety of our guests and staff is always our number one priority and to keep everyone safe, we'll be introducing a number of additional hygiene and safety measures which you'll see in place when the Resort reopens.
"We are determined to be here for you, your friends and your families, offering other worldly thrills and helping you create fantastic memories, as we have done for decades and will continue to do for many more.
"In line with current Government guidance, we are hoping to be able to reopen the Resort on the 4 July 2020."
Of course, as outlined in the statements, just because the parks are going to be reopening doesn't mean it's going to be business as usual. All three parks are implementing strict safety measures to keep staff and guests safe from the virus.
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Measures outlined on the theme parks' websites include reducing the number of visitors in the parks, accepting pre-booked tickets only, temperature checks on entry to the parks, reconfigured seating on rides and social distancing in queues.
Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures also recommend that face coverings are worn.
Ahead of the 4 July date, Alton Towers is partially re-opening this weekend, but just its gardens. No rides or rollercoasters will be operating, and there will be limited capacity and restricted opening hours to encourage social distancing and minimise the risk of visitors spreading the virus.
Featured Image Credit: Thorpe ParkTopics: UK News, Alton Towers