The National Trust has closed all its car parks in a further attempt to help restrict the spread of coronavirus and to encourage the public to stay local and observe social distancing.

The move comes as the trust ramps up its efforts to help fight the spread of the virus, which has already seen it temporarily close its houses, shops, cafes, parks and gardens.

Director general Hilary McGrady said: “Following the scenes we saw at the weekend, where visitors travelled to coast and countryside, it is really important that we do all we can to discourage travel, and ask people instead to stay local and observe social distancing as guided by the government. It is so important that people stay at home. We must all work together and not see a repeat of those weekend scenes.

“There is so much the public can do at home, and over the coming weeks our website, social media feeds, podcasts and video will become even more important, ensuring the places of nature, beauty and history that we care for on behalf of the nation can remain open for business virtually while we are temporarily closed.

“We will also be ramping up our efforts to help people connect with nature wherever they are and to find moments of joy in the world around them. We will be providing rich content and staying in touch with our members and followers throughout this time.”