Hotels, Holiday Homes and Campsites: Where can I go and who can I go with?

There are various challenges that come with foreign travel this year: from the added expense of Covid tests to the risk of quarantine if your chosen destination moves to the amber or red list. As a result, many holidaymakers are choosing to vacation here in the UK. In this article, we set out how to holiday in the UK legally and safely this summer.

Can I travel to another country within the UK?

You can move freely between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland so, if you have been thinking about visiting a different part of the UK, now might be the perfect time. However, there are still rules and restrictions that you need to be aware of, including how many people can share holiday accommodation.

The rules on travel are kept under constant review, so it is essential to check the latest government advice ahead of your holiday. 

Travelling in England

From 19th July, England lifted all restrictions on the number of people who can meet indoors. This means that any party size and number of households can stay in holiday homes, campsites and other types of accommodation across England.

Travelling to Wales

The most recent review of coronavirus restrictions in Wales was on 17th July. All holiday accommodation in Wales is now fully reopened, but you can only share accommodation and stay overnight with those in your extended household, or up to six people from six households. Any children under the age of 11 will not be included in the total number of people permitted. 

Wales are expected to move to level zero on 7th August, at which point all legal restrictions on the number of people who can meet indoors will be lifted.

Travelling to Scotland

Every area of mainland Scotland moved to level zero on 19th July. In level zero, hotels, B&Bs and campsites are open. Up to eight people from four households may stay together in private or self-catering accommodation. If there are shared bedrooms, it should be possible for each household to maintain a one metre physical distance. If not, separate rooms are recommended. 

You are also encouraged to take two lateral flow tests – one three days before travel and one on the day of travel. The Scottish Government is hopeful that all restrictions can be lifted from 9th August.

Travelling to Northern Ireland

All holiday accommodation is now open in Northern Ireland, and at present up to six people from two households can stay together overnight. If there is more than six members in a single household, the party size can be increased to a maximum of 10 people.

Guests staying in holiday accommodation will be required to provide their details (including name, telephone number and the duration of their stay) to help with the Test, Trace, Protect programme. You should also take a lateral flow test before you travel to Northern Ireland, as well as on days two and eight of your holiday.