**************************************************
Government House will be open to the public on November 13 (Sunday) from 10am to 5pm.
Visitors can view the flowers and trees in the garden and see places where the Chief Executive holds official functions and receives dignitaries in Government House. There will be free guided tours for visitors to know more about the history and architectural features of the distinguished building.
"Visitors will be treated to musical performances by the Hong Kong Police Band and student ensembles while they stroll in the garden. Display boards and two-dimensional barcodes will also be set up to show the history, architecture and important moments of Government House. Visitors with mobile devices with photo-taking and Internet functions and related barcode-scanning software may browse relevant information," a government spokesman said.
Government House is usually open to the public twice a year. The previous open day on March 20 this year drew more than 5,000 visitors.
A large number of visitors are anticipated on the day. To ensure that those already in the queue can be admitted in time, queuing outside Government House may be stopped before 5pm.
Visitors will enter the garden through the east gate at Upper Albert Road and leave through the main gate. They are encouraged to travel by public transport.
Visitors may visit the website of Government House (www.ceo.gov.hk/gh/eng) for details of the open day.
Government House is a declared monument under the Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance.
Ends/Saturday, November 5, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:00
NNNN
