PARKS and tourist attractions in Kingston upon Thames will close tomorrow (18th February) due to high winds forecast by the Met Office.

Chessington World of Adventures, Hampton Court Palace and both Bushy and Richmond Parks have all announced they will be temporarily shut to visitors for most of the day while Storm Eunice hits.

It comes after the Met Office issued an Amber Weather Warning for London and other UK regions, meaning significant disruption across the capital is likely.

Kingston upon Thames is set to be hit by winds of over 60 miles per hour, reaching highs of 68 around midday, though this is less than areas in the South West of England and Wales where wind gusts could reach 90 mph.

News of the closures will be disappointing for children and families in Kingston borough, many of whom will have been looking forward to visiting the attractions on the last day of half-term.

However, the Met Office's amber weather warning states that falling debris from the strong winds could be a danger to life, and travel is likely to be significantly disrupted due to road, bridge and rail closures.

Power cuts are also a possibility and buildings in the area may be damaged.

This afternoon, Chessington World of Adventures resort posted on Twitter that "due to the weather warning issued by the Met Office, we have made the difficult decision to close Chessington World of Adventures Resort tomorrow, Friday 18 February, as a precautionary measure to protect the health and wellbeing of our staff, guests and the animals in our care."

The Royal Parks which runs Bushy and Richmond Parks also announced the parks' temporary closure due to the extreme weather.

"Please be aware that Richmond, Bushy and Greenwich Park will be closed all day on Friday 18 February," the charity posted.

"All other parks will remain open, although playgrounds will be closed.

"This decision is based on the strong winds, the age and vulnerability of trees in particular parks."

A statement on the Hampton Court Palace Facebook page reads: "Due to the adverse weather conditions forecast for tomorrow, we've decided to close Hampton Court Palace and Grounds, including Home Park, on Friday 18th February, for the safety of our staff and visitors.

"To re-book your tickets, please email our Customer Service team at [email protected].

"We're sorry for any disappointment or inconvenience caused but hope to welcome you back to the palace soon."

Read more on Storm Eunice and the Met Office weather warning HERE