Council partially reopens visitor attractions

A number of council-run visitor attractions in Caerphilly County Borough have partially reopened to visitors.

Llanacaiach Fawr Manor, near Nelson, has reopened its gift shop and cafe, while Coffi Vista, in Caerphilly Visitor Centre, has reopened for the first time since its refurbishment earlier this year.

The gift shop and cafe at Llancaiach Fawr will be open from 10am to 3.30pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with takeaway lunch and outdoor eating areas available.

A takeaway Sunday lunch is also available for preorder, with card payments preferred.

However, the manor house remains closed.

Meanwhile, outdoor seating will be available at Coffi Vista, which will be open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Elsewhere, Cwmcarn Forest Drive will be open Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, with a takeaway service available from Raven’s Cafe. Outdoor seating, the gift shop, reception and toilets have also reopened.

Social distancing will be in place at the three sites, with seating spaced two metres apart, queuing systems in place and regular cleaning carried out.

Caerphilly County Borough Council has also confirmed all council-owned car parks throughout the borough will be free for the rest of the year, as the tourism industry aims to get back on its feet following the coronavirus lockdown.

Councillor Lisa Phipps, the council’s cabinet member for homes, places and tourism, said: “Staff have been working hard to prepare for the safe reopening of our attractions. 

“We are delighted to be able to open our doors again, but we remain cautious in our approach and are reopening these destinations gradually so that we can ensure the safety of staff and visitors.

“Visitors are asked for their patience while at the attractions, as we adapt to the new measures in place. 

“We have so much to offer in Caerphilly County Borough and warmly welcome the return of visitors, but we ask that they do so safely.”

Caerphilly Castle, which is managed by Welsh Government body Cadw, is set to reopen on August 6, with social distancing measures in place.