HERITAGE sites in Worcestershire remain closed due to coronavirus as other parts of the county begin to reopen.

National Trust properties and others managed by English Heritage, or privately owned, remain closed as managers plan for the return of visitors. The doors are still shut at Greyfriars in Friar Street, Worcester, Croome in High Green, near Severn Stoke, Hawford Dovecote in Hawford, The Firs in Lower Broadheath, Wichenford Dovecote, Hanbury Hall and Gardens, Middle Littleton Tithe Barn near Evesham and the Fleece Inn in Bretforton, all managed by the National Trust.

Spetchley Park Gardens near Worcester is asking for volunteers to help keep staff and visitors safe when the Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. Tudor House Museum in Friar Street , Worcester is closed.

English Heritage, which manages Witley Court, has been offering virtual tours of its top 30 properties, including Witley Court. English Heritage took the decision to close all staffed historic sites from March 18 and cancel public events during the closure period.

A spokesman for the National Trust said on Tuesday: “For several weeks we have been working on plans to reopen our places. We’re really looking forward to welcoming visitors back.

“We’re closely following government guidance at all times and are now considering the detailed plan published yesterday afternoon to further inform our own plans. The safety of our staff, volunteers, visitors and local communities remains our priority.

“From Wednesday we will start opening some car parks in England, in line with government advice, so people can access fresh air, open space and nature. Car parks which are staffed and have facilities, will take longer. All opening decisions will be guided by local judgement.”

Pay-for-entry places including houses and gardens, remain closed.

Any reopening will be phased and gradual. In order to maintain social distancing they plan to introduce a pre-booking system.