All the new rules pubs and restaurants must follow when they reopen this weekend

Pubs are set to open this weekend, welcoming customers for the first time in over three months – but things are set to look a little different. 

Under the new rules, you can only attend restaurants or pubs with your household and one other household, or your social bubble if you have one. The groups can be a maximum of six indoors. 

There are no limits on how many different households you can meet on each different visit.

The six limit capacity on groups also applies to beer gardens but friends of more than two households can socialise in outdoor spaces. 

And the other biggest change is the reduction in the two-metre social distancing rule, dropping down to one-metre plus, however, it is still recommended to keep two-metres where possible.

In terms of the restaurant and pubs themselves, there will be strict limits on numbers and reservations in place. Most places will be offering only card payments or mobile app payments. 

Many pubs and restaurants are currently serving takeaway beer or delivery services but from July 4th, customers will be able to dine in, on-site. 

Tables will have to be one-metre apart and may include perspex screens in some cases. Others may find that the staff will be wearing masks, gloves or visors. Some pubs may only be offering table services.

One other big change will be the requirement to leave your name and contact details either within your booking or when you arrive.

This is a temporary record which will be kept for 21 days and will be used in the case of a localised coronavirus outbreak. 

Most places are also encouraging the use of contactless ordering and payment methods, for instance on apps. 

Within pubs, one-way systems should be in place to minimise contact between customers and reduce congestion.

Doors should also be left open to reduce touchpoints and improve ventilation, with the addition of opening windows as much as possible. 

Venues are also required to avoid playing loud music, broadcasts, or any live performances. This is in attempts to keep conversations at a normal volume, avoiding shouting and therefore reducing the risk of airborne transmission.

The guidance says: “It is against the law to gather in groups of more than 30 people, except for the limited circumstances as set out in law. In these specific cases, those operating venues should take additional steps to ensure the safety of the public and prevent large gatherings or mass events from taking place.”

Pubs are also advised to use disposable condiment and cutlery to minimise the reduction of transmission.

Will you be going to the pubs when they reopen or holding off your visit? Let us know!