Rediscover two of the Island’s historic treasures — but in a Covid-secure way

Step back in time and rediscover two of the Isle of Wight’s historic treasures — Dinosaur Isle and Newport Roman Villa are getting set to reopen today.

Dinosaur Isle will lead the charge, reopening on Monday 20 July with a raft of strict new health and safety measures in place including a new booking system.

Visitors must book in advance by calling (01983) 404344 in order to control numbers and help reduce contact.

Other measures include a new one-way route, two-metre social distancing rules, additional cleaning, hand sanitiser stations at regular intervals and visitors must wear face coverings at all times.

The museum will also comply with the government’s Test and Trace measures so will require contact details for all visitors.

A helpful video welcoming people back to the museum and highlighting the safeguards in place can also be viewed on the Dinosaur Isle Facebook page.

Martin Munt, museum curator, said: “We have been working hard to get the museum up and ready in time for the summer holidays.

“We have put in place measures to ensure our visitors remain safe during their visit and much of the museum is available to see.”

The museum will open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, with the last admission at 3pm. Youngsters will also receive a fun activity pack.

At this time, the following will not be available:

  • Fossil walks.
  • Interactive sandpits.
  • Education room.

Visitors will be asked to use hand sanitiser on their arrival, before and after touching interactive displays and before they leave the museum and shop.

For more information, visit the museum’s Facebook page @DinosaurIsle or website www.dinosaurisle.com.

Meanwhile, Newport Roman Villa is set to reopen on Monday 6 August — follow the villa’s Facebook page for further information.

Isle of Wight Council leader, Dave Stewart, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to our much-loved attractions once more.

“We are confident our museums are Covid-secure and have all measures in place to maintain social distancing for everyone’s safety.”