HELENSBURGH'S most popular visitor attraction is the latest to announce its closure to the public due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The Hill House's owners, the National Trust for Scotland (NTS), made the announcement that the property – currently housed beneath a spectacular £3.2 million chain-mail 'box' – would close to visitors until further notice as part of efforts to slow the spread of the virus.

The move follows guidance from the UK government for members of the public to avoid going to pubs, clubs or restaurants, as well as large gatherings of more than 500 people.

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The NTS had earlier announced that all historic buildings and visitor centres would close from this Friday.

A statement on the The Hill House's Facebook page said: "The Hill House will be closed to the public today until further notice.

"If you have a booking with us, we will be in touch shortly, if we have not been already.

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"Events from March 20 will be cancelled to protect our visitors, supporters and team.

"We are extremely sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused.

"The health and well-being of our team and visitors is our top priority and we hope you all understand this difficult decision."

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