Certain parts of Alton Towers have been reopened to the public. On Saturday June 6, specific outdoor areas of the theme park opened, including the iconic Gardens. The rollercoasters and rides remained closed for another month.

Pre-booking to enter the Gardens is mandatory. In line with government guidance, a raft of additional hygiene and safety measures have been introduced. Social distancing markers and signs have been placed around the park.

Talking about the reopening of the Gardens, Emma Catterall, divisional director of Alton Towers said: “The Gardens have been open to the public in one form or another since 1839, but are often overlooked by guests as they rush from one ride to another.

“We are delighted to have this opportunity to offer guests the chance to enjoy the Gardens in themselves.

“We are limiting the number of guests each day and have put a raft of hygiene and safety measures in place to protect our visitors and employees.

“We are excited to be welcoming guests back to the Resort and offering families a beautiful place to enjoy time in the outdoors together.”

The entire site is expected to reopen on July 4 when further health and safety measures will be implemented include temperature checks at the gate, spatial markers at queues and communal areas, and riders only allowed on rollercoasters and rides within their groups.