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03
Aug
Attractions to close as Harrogate district braced for ‘unseasonably strong' winds
Two local tourist attractions will close tomorrow (August 4) as Storm Floris is set to hit the Harrogate district.
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind between 6am and 11.59pm tomorrow, with “unseasonably strong” and potentially disruptive winds forecast across northern England and northern Ireland. An amber wind warning is in place across most of Scotland.
Harrogate, Boroughbridge and Ripon could see gusts of up to 50mph, whilst 49mph gusts are forecast in Knaresborough. Winds are expected to reach 52mph in Masham and Pateley Bridge.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal today said the whole estate will shut tomorrow. It said online:
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal will be CLOSED tomorrow (Monday 4 August).
High winds and heavy rain from Storm Floris mean that the Abbey, Water Garden, Deer Park and Visitor Centre, including car parks, will be closed all day.
We never take the decision to close lightly as we hate to disappoint our visitors. We care for large and ancient trees here that need extra considerations for safety in high winds. While the worst of the storm isn't due to hit until the afternoon, we'll be working hard in the morning to secure the estate.
The team will be in bright and early on Tuesday to ensure all safety checks are carried out to open as normal. Thank you for your understanding.
Over in Knaresborough, Mother Shipton’s Cave has also made the decision to close ahead of Storm Floris.
The attraction said on social media:
Unfortunately, due to Storm Floris forecast Monday 4th August, we have had to make the very sad decision to close the site to keep our visitors, and our team, safe. We are so sorry for the inconvenience and will contact visitors with bookings for Monday as soon as possible
The Met Office has warned Storm Floris could lead to power cuts and potentially damage buildings.
The winds may cause injury and even danger to life, as well as disrupt roads and travel services.
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