The three-tiered coronavirus restrictions returned in England from December 2 after lockdown 2 ended, but what do the rules mean, and which businesses must close?
Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined the new rules that will be in place until the end of March under his 'Covid Winter Plan' - and Matt Hancock and the government confirmed which areas would be in which tier from December 19.
London joins major cities Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham in tier 3 while Bristol goes down from tier 3 to tier 2 and Herefordshire joins the Isle of Wight, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in tier 1.
The new rules mainly effect hospitality, pubs and hotels.
- In Tier 2, alcohol may only be served in hospitality settings as part of a substantial meal.
- In Tier 3, pubs and restaurants will only be able to offer takeaway and delivery services, while indoor entertainment, hotels and other accommodation will close.
The 10pm curfew will be relaxed, with last orders now closed at that time and premises ordered to shut at 11pm.
In all tiers, the following businesses and venues can remain open:
Essential and non-essential retail, including indoor and outdoor markets and car boot sales
Certain leisure and sporting facilities such as gyms, sports courts and facilities, leisure centres, fitness and dance studios, golf courses, swimming pools, riding centres, outdoor playgrounds. Indoor group activities and classes should not take place at tier 3
Personal care and close contact services such as hairdressers and barbers, beauty salons, tattoo parlours, nail salons, spas and beauty services, massage parlours and tanning salons
