KINGSTON Lacy house will open to the public today for the first time since the start of lockdown.

It is one of seven National Trust properties opening its doors as part of a pilot project.

Many of National Trust's gardens are already open but today is the first time people will be allowed inside properties.

Anyone wishing to visit will need to book and numbers will be strictly limited.

"It’s the start of a careful and steady plan to reopen houses over the coming weeks and months. We’re starting with a small number to make sure we can do it right as every house is unique and has its own set of challenges" said a spokesman.

House and Collections Manager Jonny Scott said: "The state floor at Kingston Lacy is a real showstopper and we are delighted to be providing access to it for visitors once more.

"As well as re-opening this outstanding collection to the public, we are very aware that we need to ensure the safety of our visitors, staff and volunteers and to that end there will be a one-way route in place and a limit to the number of visitors who will be able to access to the house at any one time.

"We are very grateful for the support of our volunteers who are helping us manage this reopening and will be here each day telling the stories of this fantastic house and its history."

​Other properties opening include Barrington Court in Somerset and Packwood in Warwickshire.

Bookings are currently being taken until Sunday July 19. More information is available at nationaltrust.org.uk​