Lancashire County Council's museums will re-open once again for indoor visits from next Monday (17 May).

The national announcement for museums to re-open was made during the Prime Minister Boris Johnson's televised briefing on Monday.

County Councillor Peter Buckley, Cabinet Member for Community and Cultural Services, said: "We know that people haven't been able to get out and about as much due to the Covid measures, but this is about to change.

"As we now get more normality back into our lives, it's a great time to visit one of our exciting museums to find out more about Lancashire's history.

"Whatever the weather, our museums are great places to visit as they’re interesting and educational, and they're also family-friendly.

"Our museums offer a day out with a difference, as you can find out more about Lancashire's history including imposing castles and a prison; beautiful furniture and of course our world-famous cotton and textiles industry."

The county council owns or runs the following museums: Clitheroe Castle Museum, Gawthorpe Hall in Burnley, Helmshore Mills Textile Museum, Lancaster's Judges' Lodgings, Lancaster Castle and Queen Street Mill Textile Museum in Burnley.

Lancaster Castle and Helmshore Mills museums were able to re-open for outdoor tours in April, but indoor tours and visits will now be possible from next week.

Booking is recommended, due to restrictions on visitor numbers at any one time. You can book online by visiting www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums or contacting individual museums direct.

Opening hours will vary compared to pre-Covid times, so please check before you visit.

People visiting are reminded of the requirement to wear a face covering (unless you are exempt) and that social distancing and other measures will still be in place.

Visitors will also be asked to use the NHS Test and Trace app or leave their contact details when they visit. This information will be retained for 21 days.

Find out more about museums, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums