Keeping Hollyhocks Safe for You

Hollyhocks is maintained and cleaned to a high standard before each group of guests arrives to reduce risks relating to Covid-19. You can assist us and yourself by following these simple guidelines:

  • Before you leave – please empty all waste/recycling bins in the house and dispose of their contents in the correct outdoor bins (see information inside the house). Note that glass bottles and jars should be recycled in the bottle bank (by the Leisure Centre) or taken home for recycling.
  • Before you leave – please place all used bed linen, towels and tea towels in a large plastic bag (provided in the kitchen) and leave it for the cleaners to arrive.
  • Please leave the house in a clean and tidy condition.
  • Please vacate the house by 10 a.m. on the morning of your departure to give our cleaners plenty of time to prepare the house for our next guests.

What attractions and places are open?

Plenty of visitor attractions in England are beginning to welcome us back in their own unique ways. From pre-booked time slots to one-way routes and social distancing, there are plenty of measures in place to help you enjoy your days out to gardens and historic castle grounds with confidence.

Check out the organisations below for more detailed information on what’s open and how you can explore the country: 

– The National Trust
– GetOutside
– English Heritage
– Historical Houses Association
– National Parks England
– Woodland Trust

Northumberland’s countryside offers plenty of opportunities for avoiding crowds and enclosed spaces. But it’s always best to check individual websites to see which locations are ready to welcome you before starting your journey and be aware of any local restrictions or rules which may be announced at any time.

How to Respect, Protect and Enjoy Northumberland

When out and about, remember to look after one another and our environment. To make sure we’re all doing our bit to tread lightly and travel responsibly, these simple steps will help you to enjoy your days out as safely as possible.

  • When planning your trip, check that essential facilities, like toilets and car parks, are open before you travel so you’re not caught short.
  • If you have an attraction in mind, please check online to see if you need to pre-book a time slot.
  • Some places may be extremely popular, so get off the beaten track and discover hidden gems that you can brag to friends about.
  • Keep two metres apart from anyone outside your household. This not only applies to walking, but also to running, cycling, sitting and sunbathing.
  • Wear your face covering at all times when on public transport like buses, trains and taxis
  • If driving, plan your route and check your vehicle before you set off
  • Make sure you have a bank card; many outlets are currently only accepting cashless payments – and you don’t want to miss out on that ice cream!
  • Take hand sanitiser with you – and use it frequently
  • Leave the car behind where possible and visit nearby attractions by walking or cycling

And here are a few more things for you to bear in mind when exploring Northumberland’s outdoor spaces:

  • Try to keep our outdoor spaces and beaches looking beautiful by putting rubbish in the nearest bins or taking it home if bins are full
  • If you come across wildlife or any farm animals, try not to disturb them. Keep dogs on a lead if necessary and remember to bag and bin any mess they leave behind.
  • Don’t use disposable barbecues as they risk causing wildfires.
  • Stick to designated footpaths except for open access areas and follow local signage for any restrictions on routes