The rules you will need to follow if you visit the pub from today UK News

A further easing of lockdown restrictions will take place today as part of Boris Johnson’s roadmap to get out of lockdown.

The prime minister unveiled his four-step plan to pull the country out of a third national lockdown in February.

The second stage begins today (April 12), with people in England able to enjoy a number of freedoms that they have had to do without for months.

Today, gyms and non-essential retailers will be able to reopen their doors, hairdressers will reopen, and outdoor attractions such as zoos or theme parks will greet visitors with new security measures in place.

The hospitality industry will also receive a welcome boost, as restaurants and pubs welcome customers again as long as they sit outside.

If you plan to brave the colder weather to visit your local beer garden from today, a number of rules will be in place.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting your local.

You have to stay seated

Much like the last time the Hospitality reopened after the lockdown, you will need to remain seated at all times after you show your table.

The staff will take your order at your table and should offer you the option of paying for food and drink at your table or outside.

The guidelines state that companies can accept payments indoors provided it is a last resort and absolutely necessary.

You don’t have to pay for a meal

Fortunately, the scotch egg debate is a thing of the past as it is no longer necessary to purchase a “substantial meal” when ordering alcohol.

It used to be that pubs were told they couldn’t serve alcohol to customers unless they order food, but this rule is no longer in effect.

Curfew removed

Under the new guidelines, there will no longer be a curfew imposed on establishments telling them when to open and close.

Pubs and restaurants had previously been told they had to close at 10 p.m. due to Covid restrictions in England, but that rule is no longer in effect.

Bathroom

Customers will be allowed to enter and use the washrooms, but this number will be limited with a handful of customers allowed inside at all times.

If you must use the indoor toilet, pay inside, or drop by to access the beer garden, a face mask should be worn at all times.

Carveries can return

Good news for lovers of meat cutting, as pubs can reopen their cutting counters indoors.

The guidelines state that establishments that do not serve alcohol may invite customers to order and collect food and beverages at the counter. However, all foods should be eaten at the table outside.

Social distancing

Despite the relaxation of rules across England, social distancing rules will still be in place in all pubs across the country.

This will mean that only six people from different households or up to two different households will be allowed to meet at an outdoor table in pubs and restaurants.

Before new restrictions are lifted on May 17 if all goes according to plan, households are still prohibited from mingling indoors.