He warned people to stay away from farm animals, but said numerous attractions such as historic buildings, markets and beaches were open to explore as normal. The message was intended to end the confusion over access to rural areas which is threatening to cripple the tourist industry. There are lots of places you can visit and things you can do, but you have to behave responsibly and you must stay away from farm animals and obey all local restrictions. The Countryside Agency is putting new maps and information about what is open, county by county, on its website.
More information is available on the government's agriculture and transport department sites.
There are lots of places you can visit and things you can do, but you have to behave responsibly and you must stay away from farm animals and obey all local restrictions Michael Meacher English Heritage said 85 of the 409 historic sites which it manages are open while 201 sites in rural areas are closed as a precaution against the disease. The remaining 123 sites are normally closed at this time of year and it is hoped to open many of these as planned on 1 April. While we are keen to support tourism and bring life and revenue back into the wider rural community, our priority must be to take all necessary measures to ensure that we act in line with current guidelines. The National Trust said about 20 of its properties remain open. Friday's guidance from the government applies to England only - the devolved assemblies in Wales and Northern Ireland and the Scottish parliament will be issuing their own guidelines based on local circumstances.