Derbyshire beauty spot urges people to 'stay away' despite rumours of lockdown easing

The visitor centre, café, car park, cave tours and museum at Creswell Crags have been closed due to Covid-19 since March 17.

Although the world famous site has warned that its finances may not allow it survive post-lockdown, it wants visitors to stay away until restrictions are eased and it can reopen properly.

Executive director Paul Baker said: “In normal circumstances we would enthusiastically welcome visitors this time of year but given the lockdown we are asking people not to visit other than for their short daily exercise, if they live locally.

MORE: Young Chesterfield dad who took his own life gave gift of life to others by donating organs

“We want to minimise disruption for our neighbours and make sure social distancing is possible on site.

“We also want to be sure everyone is safe: the locked gates mean there is no access for emergency vehicles, and the absence of staff on site means there are no first aiders, as there usually would be.

“It is regrettable but for safety reasons, and out of respect for local residents, we must ask people to stay away.”​

The picturesque limestone gorge is accessible via a public bridleway and local people have been making the most of the beauty spot on their doorstep to take their daily exercise and walk dogs.

Posts on social media have already asked them to take litter home, since staff are not there to empty bins. However, local visitors who arrive on foot are welcome at the site.