Covid 19 – Latest Update 18th May 2020

Update on Kielder Water & Forest Park re-opening plans

A phased re-opening of facilities at Kielder Water & Forest Park will take a step forward this week, with some car parks and public toilets set to re-open on Wednesday 20 May 2020.

We appreciate that people want to start visiting the Kielder area again, but would urge anybody who does choose to visit to be respectful of the local communities.

Please stay away from village and residential centres, and strictly observe Government guidelines on social distancing wherever you are in the Park.

As much as possible, please continue to stay local and exercise close to home.

The measures outlined below are in line with recent Government guidance updates, but we will keep them under review and they may be subject to change.

Car parks

The following car parks will re-open from 20 May:

• Hawkhope
• Tower Knowe
• Elf Kirk
• Matthew’s Linn
• Bakethin Nature Reserve
• Kielder Skyspace lower car park
• Kielder Castle

Normal car parking charges apply. Parking at all car parks except Kielder Castle, Elf Kirk and Kielder Skyspace lower car park must be pre-booked online at www.bookwhen.com/car-parking

Please note that Kielder Waterside remains closed to visitors. Where Lakeside Way passes through Kielder Waterside, we strongly urge walkers to stick strictly to the path and to not enter the site. No facilities at Kielder Waterside will be open at this time.

The Forest Drive also remains closed at this time.

Overnight stays in motorhomes or wild camping are not permitted at this time in line with Government guidance. Those found undertaking this will be reported to the police.

Public toilets

The public toilets opposite Kielder Castle and at Tower Knowe will be open.

When using these, please follow social distancing guidelines, use the sanitiser and liquid soaps provided, abide by all safety and usage signage and be considerate and respectful of those whose job it is to keep these facilities clean.

Angling

Work continues to put plans in place for a safe re-start to angling on Kielder Water and we anticipate being able to give a further update on this on Wednesday 20 May.

Other facilities and attractions

Please note that all the wildlife hides in the Park will remain closed, as will the Kielder Art & Architecture installations. Kielder Castle grounds will also remain closed. In line with Government guidelines, all play areas will remain closed.

We would also ask that people take their litter home or use bins provided, and to dispose of dog waste properly, to help limit the risk of infection. Please do not leave dog mess bags lying around the area.

Other facilities that remain closed across the Park include:

• All facilities at Kielder Waterside
• All facilities at Tower Knowe except parking and toilets
• Kielder Castle
• Kielder Campsite
• Kielder Cycle Centre
• Kielder Observatory
• Kielder Birds of Prey Centre
• Scout Adventures Hawkhirst

Further updates will be posted on our social media channels as and when things change.

Thank you and stay safe.

Please see below further information and links provided by our attractions/operators.

Landal Kielder Waterside

If you have a holiday booked at Landal Kielder Waterside you should contact Hoseasons who will discuss options with you. For anyone who has booked a caravan pitch or a fishing permit then Northumbrian Water will sadly cancel your booking and process a refund. https://www.kielderwaterside.com/