COLCHESTER’S tourist and cultural destinations are preparing to welcome back the public following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.

Colchester Castle will reopen its historic gates on Monday after being shut during the third national lockdown.

One of the east of England’s most popular tourism destinations, the Norman keep features a range of nationally important pieces, from Roman times through to today.

With a host of activities for people of all ages including a Roman chariot racing game and interactive tablet hire, museum staff are looking forward to welcoming back visitors.

To ensure safety and social distancing guidelines can be met, visitors will need to call ahead a book a timed entry slot to the castle.

Call 01206 282939 and choose and entry time from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sunday.

Those with resident or membership passes will still need to book.

There may be queues to enter the premises so arriving early is advised, whilst a one-way system and markers will guide the public.

The castle shop will be open, with contactless payments encouraged wherever possible.

Delighted - council culture boss Julie Young

Delighted - council culture boss Julie Young

Julie Young, councillor responsible for culture and performance, said: “We are thrilled that we can open safely once again and thank the public for bearing with our new ‘normal’ and booking a visit ahead of time.

“The friendly team can’t wait to welcome smiling faces back this summer and see the return of the Castle’s beating heart, it’s visitors.”

Colchester’s famous Headgate Theatre is also preparing to welcome back audiences for the first time in 15 months.

Reopening - Dave King inside the Headgate Theatre

Reopening - Dave King inside the Headgate Theatre

An initial programme of socially distanced performances has been devised, with tickets on sale now.

Until the end of June the auditorium can only accommodate 50 per cent of the usual number of visitors.

A number of new safety measures will be in place, including hand sanitiser stations, a one-way system and an enhanced cleaning regime.

From June 9 to 12 the first show in the new season is Two by Jim Cartwright. Two actors play the landlord and landlady, and their 12 customers.

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Further planned events include one-man show Strictly Sherlock and a night with clairvoyant Ronnie Buckingham.

A number of new projects are also launching at the theatre over the coming weeks including the Headgate Young Company, a junior choir and the new Headgate Friend scheme, gathering public support.

Visit www.headgatetheatre.co.uk and colchester.cimuseums.org.uk for more information.