COVID-19 & Access to the Countryside
23rd March 2020
In light of the changing situation with the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic and in accordance with the Prime Minister’s statement on 23 March we want to reinforce the Government’s message and urge people to not visit the Surrey Hills AONB and observe social distancing to help restrict the spread of the virus.
In these unprecedented times, please ensure you stay up to date with the latest Government Health Guidelines
Enjoy nature from your home
Nature can be a wonderful solace in times of crisis and uncertainty and there is perhaps some reassurance that Spring and the rhythm of the natural world continue unabated; blossom is erupting from trees and hedges, the bluebells are unfurling, the birds are singing, and pollinators are starting to emerge.
Here are some ideas for how you can remain connected with nature even if you are stuck at home.
Garden Birdwatching
Get to know the birds outside your window with bird identification from RSPB
Nature activities for kids
The Wildlife Trusts have some great ideas for nature-based activities including making a bird feeder, a mini nature reserve, and making a butterfly painting.
Supporting local businesses
The current situation will have a big impact on the local economy and the ability of many businesses to cope, it is more important than ever to support small businesses within our community. Take a look at our directory of Surrey Hills Businesses which includes a very wide range of products and services. Click here to read Surrey Hills Enterprises 5 reasons to support local businesses.
You can also check out this map which shows you where these businesses are located.
Stay connected #SurreyHillsAONB
Over the coming weeks we’ll be sharing photos of the Surrey Hills across our digital platforms – our website, social media feeds and video. We hope that this will provide you with a window to the countryside you love and provide some optimism for the future.
Please follow us on Twitter @SurreyHillsAONB Facebook @SurreyHillsAONB and Instagram @surreyhillsaonb for the latest updates from the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
#MySurreyHills
Why not take a look at our My Surrey Hills series of videos focusing on people and the love they have for the area that they live, work in or simply enjoy visiting – something to inspire you to plan a visit to the area in the future click here to the videos
Contacting us
If you have a query and need to contact the Surrey Hills AONB Team please email surreyhills@surreycc.gov.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
Stay safe.