Scenes of people flocking to the coast in a bid to escape self-isolation at home has prompted a warning against all non-essential travel.

Norfolk has a large number of holiday houses and second homes – but people are now being told not to travel unless it is essential – due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The Government issued guidance on Sunday night against all travelling to second homes, holiday properties or caravans.

Boris Johnson is under mounting pressure to order a widespread lockdown after thousands of people ignored calls for “social distancing” to slow the coronavirus pandemic.

The Prime Minister said he will be thinking “very, very actively” about what steps to take if people continue to gather in large numbers in defiance of calls to stay apart.

There was anger among MPs at scenes over the weekend of crowds flocking to parks, markets, beaches and beauty spots.

It comes amid fears that large numbers of people flocking into areas could put extra pressures on the NHS and health services.

MORE: Parkdean announces closure of its holiday parksThe government guidance states: “Essential travel does not include visits to second homes, camp sites, caravan parks or similar, whether for isolation purposes or holidays.

“People should remain in their primary residence.

“Not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk.”

MORE: Holiday park announces closures over coronavirus

The appeal comes after George Freeman, the MP for Mid Norfolk, urged second home owners to stay out of Norfolk.

The MP took to Twitter to warn: “To those people with 2nd homes in Norfolk: PLS DONT flee London to come to Norfolk: you risk spreading the virus, Norfolk’s pubs are closed & shops don’t need 2nd homers, Norfolk’s retired elderly population is at high risk, our NHS needs to focus on our vulnerable.”

MORE: MP urges Londoners not to use their Norfolk second homes

Parkdean Resorts, which operates Vauxhall, Breydon Water, California Cliffs, Cherry Tree, Kessingland Beach, Summerfield, Manor Park and Heacham Beach holiday parks, has said it will close over coronavirus advice - after the company faced a backlash over an earlier announcement its resorts would stay open to holidaymakers.

Haven announced last week that its resorts in Great Yarmouth, Hopton, Caister and Belton would shut temporarily with holidaymakers already there will be asked to leave.

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