Warwick visitor information centre preparing to reopen with a new look

A new-look visitor information centre in the Warwick Court House is being completed this weekend ready to welcome back visitors to the historic county town when the centre reopens on Monday April 12, along with all shops, hairdressers, gyms and outdoor areas at pubs and restaurants.

During the lockdown the town council has completely refurbished the information centre to give visitors more space and with a larger area for displays.

Liz Healey, visitor centre manager, said: “We are very excited to be reopening on Monday, and hope that with holidays abroad ruled out for the time being, people from around the region will see Warwick as a great place for a day out.

"Our famous independent shops will be open again, and as the weather gets warmer there are plenty of beer gardens and outdoor eating areas to enjoy, with the 'rule of six' or two households meeting outdoors now permitted.

"Warwick Castle will reopen its outside attractions with numbers limited by a ticketing system. Our box office will be selling castle tickets.

"We also have a new range of souvenirs and attractive gifts, and aim to regularly showcase local artists and crafters, such as the 'open studios' and 'love local' groups.

"So we hope plenty of local people will be popping in to the new-style visitor centre, and there's enough space for it to be hired for small functions in the evenings when indoor events are

permitted.

"Most of the work dismantling the old rotunda and preparing for new electrics was done in house by our brilliant custodian, Chris Saysell, so the costs have been minimal.”

Cllr Richard Edgington, chairman of the town's economic and tourism committee, said: “The removal of the existing fittings and the refurbishment allow for a more open and modern information centre, that can accommodate more visitors safely.

"It will also be a multi-functional area, able to accommodate local crafters and educational spaces, all of which form part of the business plan to increase footfall and above all enhance the service for visitors and locals alike.”

The visitor information centre will be formally reopened by the Mayor of Warwick, Cllr Terry Morris, on Monday, and will be open seven days a week, with staff answering telephone enquiries on 01926 492212.