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What are the rules for pubs and restaurants reopening under new Covid tiers 1, 2 and 3?

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

After a week of speculation, health secretary Matt Hancock has announced that London will, from Wednesday, be subject to Tier 3 restrictions.

People may still meet outdoors in large open spaces like parks – subject to the rule of six – and non-essential shops, gyms, leisure facilities and hairdressers are able to remain open. Weddings with a reduced capacity can also go ahead.

The headline for hospitality, though, is that restaurants, pubs and bars will be forced to close completely for dine-in trade, though they may still offer takeaway and delivery services.

The tier system will continue to be reviewed every seven days from now on; should there be an reduction in cases, London may drop back down into Tier 2, and possibly even Tier 1. Here’s what each means for diners and drinkers.

Tier 1 rules for hospitality

  • All restaurants, pubs and bars may re-open.

  • Table service only.

  • Rule of six is expected to apply.

  • Last orders will be 10pm, but closing time will be 11pm.

Tier 2 rules for hospitality

  • Pubs and bars must close, unless operating as restaurants.

  • Hospitality venues can only serve alcohol with “substantial meals”.

  • Last orders will be 10pm, but closing time will be 11pm.

  • No mixing of households indoors, apart from support bubbles. Rule of six for outdoors.

Tier 3 rules for hospitality

  • All hospitality venues are closed, with the exception of sales by takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery.