In response to the COVID0-19 pandemic, Merlin Entertainments is closing its theme parks and attractions in the UK for a temporary period.

The sites suspending operations include Legoland Windsor, Thorpe Park, Alton Towers and Chessington World of Adventures.

Legoland Windsor was closed on March 20 but the Legoland Windsor Resort Hotel will remain open for now.

The opening of Alton Towers, due on March 20, has been postponed until further notice.

In a statement, Merlin Entertainments said: While we have been looking forward to welcoming visitors this weekend, we believe that this decision is the right thing to protect the health and wellbeing of our employees and guests. Alton Towers Resort will remain closed until further notice.”

Chessington World of Adventure Resort closed on March 21. The resort announced: “We believe that this is the right decision to protect the health and wellbeing of our guests and staff.”

This season’s opening of Thorpe Park has also been postponed from March 21.