VISITOR attractions across the county are gearing up for a hopeful summer after the government’s latest announcement.

Over the last year, members of Hampshire’s Top Attractions, a 65 member strong collaborative marketing consortium, are said to have experienced an array of emotions as the pandemic has forced them to close.

The group says the latest announcement has provided a “much-needed light at the end of the tunnel”, allowing the attractions to work on reopening plans.

With staggered opening dates of April 12, May 17 and June 21, there is optimism that tourism will recover particularly with the expectation of staycations.

Hampshire’s Top Attractions will be helping visitors to the county to plan their days out and save money with over 20 discount offers for attractions and there’s also plans for a festival in June to celebrate the diverse range of attractions and give them a “much needed boost”.

Paultons Park will also be celebrating as it looks to launch Tornado Springs, a new themed world that was originally planned to open ten months ago.

Rob Griffiths, Head of Marketing and Communications at Paultons Park said: “After a quiet few months we are looking forward to seeing our wonderful guests again – it’ll certainly be worth the wait.”

Ensuring visitors feel safe is said to be a top priority for all attractions, and the indoor Winchester Science Centre has seen a positive response to their safety measures.

Sarah Bull, Head of Marketing said: “We are working with our visitors to create a safe and enjoyable day out and their response has been overwhelming.”

On the Watercress Line, Mid Hants Railway are already planning to repeat the Steam illuminations in 2021 after a successful event last December.