Encouraging People to Visit the Museum


Yesterday we had a visit from Kate at ITV Border. She came to the Museum to interview me about our first week of opening. Beforehand, she wondered round the Museum as I pointed out the precautions we had put in place, from the social distancing floor stickers to the hand sanitiser stations. 

After the initial gallery shots and atmospheric covid-precaution camera angles, it was time for the interview. Thankfully I had had a haircut so didn't look too ruffled and fluffy for the discussion. She asked how our first week had been, what precautions we had put into place, and how we deal with donations of objects when they come into the Museum. She was fascinated with us 'quaranting' the donation objects for 72 hours. Another precaution we have put into place during the current situation.

It is great that the media are supporting us during these tough times. Infact, this evening I am being interviewed on Radio Cumbria. We need to get the message out there that we are open and it is safe to visit. Visitor footfall is understandably lower than normal, but these are not normal times and people are being cautious. We have to let them know that we are taking their safety seriously and have put all the relevant precautions in place.

As I write this blog I am sitting on the reception desk, meeting and greeting visitors, safely tucked behind our new sparkly 'sneeze screen.' People are chatty, understanding of the new rules, and keen to be out and about. We have no international visitors through our doors at the moment. Last week, many of our visitors were local or day-trippers from places like Newcastle and Wigan. This morning, we have some family groups on holiday from Milton Keynes, Cambridge and Eastbourne. Slowly, as things begin to open up, we are seeing visitors from further afield. It feels good to welcome people back on-site.

As we head towards the traditional English school summer holidays, it will be interesting to see if our numbers pick up. We are working closely with English Heritage to ensure a site-wide approach, and with Carlisle City Council to encourage visitors back to the City. Like many businesses and leisure attractions, it is not going to be an easy year with a landscape that is currently very different for everyone. This is the time to support each other to help navigate these uncertain times. 

What is reassuring are comments from visitors who understand that the world is a bit different at the moment. 'A fabulous little Museum' said one lady this morning. 'One of the best Regimental Museums that I have visited, and I have been to a few,' commented another visitor. Reassuring and good to hear. Hopefully, they will tell others, and that 'word of mouth' will help encourage folk out and about. We hope so.


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