A checklist for visitors during the Coronavirus pandemic
As we ease of out lockdown in Scotland, the National Park has begun to open up with car parks, toilets, the Duncan Mills Memorial Slipway and our campsites and camping permit areas now open. We can’t wait to welcome you back to this special place. Since we have all been cooped up in our homes for months, we’re expecting more visitors than usual eager to explore the great outdoors.
Before setting off on your adventure, please read our advice for visitors so you can Think, Check, Plan ahead of your visit. Remember to check the current status of our car parks and toilets too. We’re currently running a trial where we’ll be updating the information at regular intervals over the weekend, so you’ll know which car parks are full or near capacity, giving you some notice should you need to choose a different destination.
As we all adapt to the ‘new normal’ and move out of lockdown, things are constantly changing and heading to the National Park isn’t as simple as it used to be. Whether you’re visiting for the first or 100th time, this checklist should help you prepare so that everyone can enjoy the area safely and responsibly.
- Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for updates on what’s happening in the National Park.
- Look at things to do, how to get here and where to park. Check out local businesses and know what times they open and if you need to book in advance. Remember that some local businesses are still not open yet, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Make sure you bookmark our car park page for live updates during peak periods on Saturday and Sunday. Mid-week, this page will still provide important information about where car parks are, and which toilets are open.
- Have a Plan B prepared in case your first choice is too busy. Remember, Coronavirus spreads more easily in busy places so you should avoid crowded areas. Know what you’ll do if car parks are packed. Go somewhere else and do not park dangerously. A number of clearways and parking restrictions are in place around tourist hot spots. Don’t get caught out by parking unsafely.
- If you’re taking a picnic or camping, have a think about what you’ll do with your waste afterwards. We’d recommend taking two extra bags so you can separate recyclable waste or double-bag your litter and take it home if there are no bins around. Don’t ever litter or leave rubbish next to a bin if the bin is full – that is still littering and you could be fined. Let’s all do our bit and keep the National Park litter free.
- Follow the national guidance on hygiene and physical distancing. Remember to bring a face covering to use indoors should you wish to visit local shops and hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean. Always keep 2m away from others and do not visit if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
- ‘Go’ before you go and check out which areas have toilets open on our facilities information page. If you’re heading somewhere more remote, read up on what to do when you need to poo in the wild.
- Make the most of the day and set off early or take it easy and go later in the day. Arriving at peak times means car parks are likely to be busy so you might find it harder to get parked.
- Be kind and patient. Locals and businesses have been in lockdown too. Everyone is adjusting to a new way of doing things.
- Plan your next visit. You won’t get to see and do everything in one day but we’re on Scotland’s doorstep so think, check and plan your next visit and read up on all the brilliant things to see in the National Park.
We know you’ve missed the National Park, and we’ve missed you too, but Coronavirus hasn’t gone away, we still need to stay safe and remember FACTS to help us all to stay safe, protect others and save lives.