Hundreds of walkers, cyclists and young families descended upon Bushy Park early this morning to take in the fresh air and exercise - and in hope of tracking down a much-needed cup of coffee on a chilly and misty start to the first day of the new coronavirus lockdown.

And they were successful: The Pheasantry café and kiosk, which can be reached via the Teddington entrance to the park, is open for coffee.

It is still serving food and the small kiosk at The Diana Fountain car park is also open for business and serving refreshments. Both intend to stay open over the lockdown, which is due to end on December 2.

Strict guidelines are in place regarding social distancing. Entrance and exits are clearly marked and park benches and tables are available for seating. The QR code for track and trace must also be used by visitors.

The misty morning also gave the early band of regular park photographers a field day to capture stunning images of the deer silhouetted against the mist and the hundreds of wild birds congregating around the Heron Lake.

Read more: Photo gallery: 7 scenic snaps as thick fog covers Bushy Park

By 10.30am both The Diana Fountain and The Pheasantry car parks were almost full and a police transit van patrolled the park.

The Royal Parks charity today encouraged visitors to both Bushy Park and Richmond Park.

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[i]This year many people have discovered a new understanding and appreciation of the Royal Parks. They have become a lifeline, providing vital recreation, relaxation and respite from the uncertainty of the new world in which we find ourselves. As we enter another period of lockdown we want to let you know that the parks and our other green spaces are here for you again.

We were immensely proud of staying open during the first lockdown thanks to the dedication of our parks staff and our contractors, who continued travelling to work. We approach the next one with the same pride that we're able to be there for Londoners at a difficult time, and the same dedication to safely welcoming people through our gates.

Being in the fresh air and close to nature is crucial for mental and physical wellbeing. We encourage you to get out into the parks - while following whatever government guidelines are in place at the time - to keep yourself healthy over the coming month and beyond.

We're working through the new measures to ensure the safety of our staff and visitors. You can find the information you need to visit the parks safely on our website and on Twitter.