During the Coronaviris crisis, the UK Government is asking us to stay home to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus. At the time of original publication of this page (Tuesday 24 March, 2020), the country has been placed on lockdown, with schools, shops, bars and clubs shut. We’re not allowed to leave the house unless for essential food items, work we can’t do at home, and exercise, either alone or with one member of the household – groups of more than two are banned outside the home.
Many of us gardeners will be spending extra time in the garden. But what about the allotment? Can we still go?
After the Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s address to the nation on Monday 23 March, 202o, Chancellor Michael Gove clarified matters relating to ‘exercise’. He said people would be allowed to run, walk or go to an allotment, but that more social activities, such as playing golf, were not allowed.
Advice updated at 10am, Friday 27 March, 2020.
Visiting the allotment is essential for the physical and wellbeing of many of us.
We spoke to Doctor and Broadcaster Amir Khan, who said: “It’s still perfectly safe (and recommended) that you go out into your gardens and allotments for both the health of your mind and body.”
However, it’s important to adhere to strict social distancing rules while at the allotment and travelling to and from the allotment. We’ve come up with some guidelines to help keep you and others safe:
Current Government advice could change, and we will update this article when we have new advice.
UK Government updates on coronavirus
Statement from the National Allotment Society
There’s plenty you can be getting on with on the allotment now, from digging and preparing beds, to mulching, sowing seed and harvesting the last of the winter crops. Browse our lists of jobs for inspiration:
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