Current UK Travel Rules

What are the current UK travel rules as England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland experience constant changes in restrictions? Here’s everything we know.

Can I travel on holiday right now?

Yes. Monday 17 May 2021 marked a significant date in the holiday calendar as travel abroad became possible again after many Covid lockdowns. Destinations were categorized according to the government’s traffic light system – green, amber, and red – with each color indicating different rules regarding testing and quarantining upon return to the UK.

However, on Monday 4 October 2021, the travel rules underwent further changes. Green and amber list countries transitioned to ‘non-red’ countries, while the red list of countries to avoid remained. Currently, there are no countries on the red list, and quarantine hotels were phased out by the end of March 2022, indicating that the red list might have been quietly abolished.

On Friday 18 March, all Covid-related travel rules within the UK were repealed, meaning that travelers no longer need to test, quarantine, or complete any forms, regardless of their vaccination status when returning to the country.

Regarding holidays within England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, they are fully permitted. On Monday 19 July 2021, all group-size limits were eliminated in England, allowing residents to travel domestically without restrictions on the number of people. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland followed suit shortly thereafter.

Can I go on a cruise from the UK?

As of Monday 2 August 2021, international cruises resumed from England. It is advisable to consult your cruise operator and travel insurance provider about medical facilities on board and protocols in case of an outbreak. For the latest on international cruises from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, checking the relevant government website is recommended.

Can I travel on holiday from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland?

Overseas travel from all three nations is allowed, with travel to and from Scotland feasible. All holiday accommodations, including hotels, are open. Travel within Wales and self-catered stays have been permissible since Saturday 27 March 2021, and the borders were opened for travel on Monday 12 April, with all hotels and accommodations allowed to operate by Monday 17 May. Northern Ireland lifted more restrictions on Monday 24 May, enabling hotels and other holiday accommodations to reopen.

Can I travel from England to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland?

Travel between England, Wales, and Scotland is permitted, which includes overnight stays in self-catering and isolated accommodations, as well as hotels and B&Bs.

Should I plan a holiday in the UK?

Staycations are currently experiencing a surge. Domestic holidays in Britain are increasingly popular, and it’s crucial to be clear about refund policies when planning. While recommendations for safe accommodations and activities abound, always prioritize a thorough understanding of local regulations.

Key Dates for Lockdown Easing in England

Note: Dates differed in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. These dates apply specifically to changes in England.

Stage 1: March

All schools reopened on Monday 8 March, allowing outdoor socializing one-on-one between two household bubbles. Since Monday 29 March, outdoor gatherings have included up to six people or two households. Outdoor sports resumed, with ‘Stay Local’ guidelines in effect, meaning to remain within your local area as much as possible. However, day trips became permissible from Monday 29 March, though not actively encouraged.

Stage 2: Monday 12 April

Self-catering holiday lets, including Airbnb, reopened for individuals or families, along with campsites lacking shared facilities. Staycation holidays became viable, as the guideline to ‘Stay Local’ was lifted, making longer trips acceptable. Non-essential shops, hairdressers, gyms, and outdoor hospitality resumed operations, including pubs and outdoor restaurant gardens. Zoos and amusement parks also reopened.

Stage 3: Monday 17 May

Hotels and B&Bs were permitted to reopen, with overseas holidays allowed for select destinations per the traffic-light system. Most outdoor restrictions were lifted, enabling gatherings of two households or six people indoors for dining, while 30 could meet outside. Additionally, Pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theaters, museums, exhibitions, and sports stadiums resumed operations, with some large events of up to 4,000 people permitted. Children were not required to wear masks at school, and the return of physical interactions was celebrated.

Stage 4: Monday 19 July

All large events and live performances were reinstated without size limitations, nightclubs reopened, and all remaining social contact restrictions were lifted. This marked the transition to Stage 4 on the same day, despite initial forecasts that changes would occur four weeks earlier. Notably, vaccine passports intended for entry into clubs and high-capacity venues were scrapped in England.

What About the Rest of the UK?

Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are currently adhering to the same protocols as England. Notably, Scotland maintained a legal requirement for face coverings in certain settings longer, until 18 April. England and Wales were the first to conclude the free testing system for asymptomatic Covid cases as of 1 April 2022, with Scotland following on 18 April and Northern Ireland set to comply by 22 April. Additionally, Scotland remains the only nation offering free PCR tests for symptomatic individuals until the end of April, while England, Wales, and Northern Ireland provide them solely for specific high-risk groups.