Haslemere Educational Museum has been very busy ensuring it can reopen safely to protect visitors and staff – and the hard work has paid off, with the museum set to throw open its doors again from Tuesday, August 11.

Initially it will open for three days a week – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – from 11am to 4pm. There will also be the opportunity for welcoming school trips and holding other private and public events following discussions with staff.

Its reopening criteria follows government and museum sector guidelines, including a risk assessment, hygiene procedures and social distancing.

A rigorous cleaning schedule is in place and high touch points will be cleaned throughout the day and hand sanitiser available throughout the building.

A one-way visitor route around the exhibits, galleries and gardens has been planned and the café and shop will not be open initially.

Visitors will be asked to wear masks or face shields when inside, keep two metres apart from other visitors, and will be asked for contact details for the Test and Trace system.

The museum’s well-loved children’s backpacks are available free of charge, but must be pre-ordered by ringing the museum on 01428 642112.

While visits may offer a different experience to previous trips, the museum’s exhibits, galleries, gardens and pond – where the water lilies are in full flower and wildlife abounds – are all very much available to enjoy.

Melanie Odell, president of the Haslemere Museum, said: “We have so much to share, so please stay safe and well and we look forward to welcoming our visitors as we bring life back to the museum.”