With great regret, we will be closing the doors of Wentworth Woodhouse to the public from 5pm today (Friday March 20).
All events and tours have been postponed until further notice.
In these unprecedented times, Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust must act to protect and prioritise public health and play its part in preventing further spread of the COVID 19 virus.
Staff are receiving full pay until the end of March, after which point, funds start to run out. The Trust are currently reviewing the situation according to Government financial initiatives.
All staff have unanimously agreed to work on to support the house and grounds for as long as possible. Wherever possible, they will work remotely from home.
WWPT’s CEO Sarah McLeod commented: “We cannot thank our team enough for their loyalty and support during this extremely challenging time and will be doing everything we can to protect their health and jobs through this crisis.
“This afternoon we will run our last tours until the pandemic is over. But Wentworth Woodhouse has stood proud and strong for over 250 years – be assured its closure to the public is temporary.
“As soon as Government advice allows, we are determined to bounce back.”
In 2017, the Trust began the vital task of restoring the site. With financial support from thousands of visitors enjoying tours and events, much has been done in three years.
There is much work still to do to ensure Wentworth Woodhouse remains a focal point of the local community and an economic driver for centuries more.
For as long as possible, craftsmen will remain at work carrying out roof repairs under the Trust’s Capital Works Programme. The public will be regularly updated on progress being made and any new fundraising campaigns.
Added the Trust’s chair Dame Julie Kenny CBE: “We know we have the support of all who love this great house and look forward to welcoming everyone back across the threshold as soon as we are able.”
