Coronavirus London: latest information and advice

Can I visit London now?

Yes! You can still support places that are following COVID-secure guidelines in central London, discover new favourites on your doorstep and plan your return to the city.

Just remember to keep safe, be responsible and follow the latest restrictions for London when out and about.

The UK is open to international visitors. However, many countries have travel restrictions in place and international visitors should check their own government’s guidelines for advice before any travel to London.

People arriving in England from certain countries no longer need to self-isolate. Find more information about travelling to the UK.

If you’re not able to visit yet, you can still experience London from your sofa with our Virtually London guide.

London lockdown rules: What are the high (tier 2) restrictions?

London is currently subject to high (tier 2) level restrictions. 

You can continue to enjoy all of London’s COVID-secure pubs, restaurants, shops, attractions and leisure venues. 

If you're socialising outdoors, you should continue to observe the “rule of six”. However, you must not meet indoors with people outside of your household or bubble.

You should also aim to reduce the number of journeys you make on public transport – walk or cycle where possible.

Find more information about the current coronavirus restrictions for London.

Staycations in London

If you’re planning to visit London on a staycation, make sure to read the latest guidance on planning a holiday in England, which includes detailed information on what to do if you feel unwell during your trip. 

If your local area is currently under high (tier 2) or very high (tier 3) restrictions, there are certain rules around travel and overnight stays. Check which coronavirus restrictions apply to your local area before travelling to London.

London attractions, venues and events

Rediscover London and safely return to the places you’ve missed after lockdown. Check out what’s open and when across the city, including shops, markets, pubs, restaurants, attractions, museums and galleries. Plus, take a look at the top London activities after lockdown.

Hospitality venues, such as restaurants and bars, are required to close by 10pm until further notice.

While there are plenty of fun things to do in London and London events are starting to take place again, some major events may still be postponed or cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

When out and about, make sure to share your London using the #BecauseImALondoner hashtag!

Guidance for staying safe

It is advised that you make your journey by cycling or walking. If you make a journey on public transport, you should avoid travelling at peak times and wear a face covering. For the latest travel information, visit the Transport for London website.

Plan ahead and get around London safely with the TfL Go app, which helps you plan the best routes and travel outside of peak times to aid social distancing. 

Visit the official UK government website to find out more about restrictions due to coronavirus and how to stay safe outside of your home, including social distancing guidelines.

Face coverings

It is mandatory to wear a face covering on all public transport, in taxis and private-hire vehicles, and public indoor settings, including shops, supermarkets, cinemas, museums, galleries and places of worship.

Face coverings must also be worn in restaurants, bars and pubs, unless you're seated at a table.

Find more information on face coverings and where you should wear one in London.

How will coronavirus impact my travel to London?

People are required to continue observing social distancing – follow the guidelines to stay safe outside your home. 

Find out what to do if you feel unwell during your trip to London. There are specific procedures in place for anyone experiencing symptoms, with further information on the official UK government website.

You can also find further advice on the NHS website, including how to get a free test for coronavirus.

To avoid the spread of the virus, make sure you:

• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and warm water. Use hand sanitiser if you do not have access to water.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue (not your hands) when sneezing or coughing.
• Clean and disinfect regularly touched objects and surfaces to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
• Limit contact with other people and stay two metres away from others outside of your household.
• Wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces and when travelling on public transport. This measure applies across all TfL services.  

Pre-booked tickets

In light of the UK government recommendations, the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre venues have ended some current performances – visit the Official London Theatre website for information about refunds and exchanges. 

More useful information

To ensure the businesses you visit are adhering to government and public health guidance, you’ll start to see the “We’re Good to Go” industry standard mark. This is available to UK venues and businesses to signal that they’ve put in place special safety measures due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Look out for the new “See it Safely” mark as theatre doors begin to reopen, which ensures that venues are following coronavirus safety guidelines and social distancing measures. 

You can also nominate your local small businesses and encourage them to sign up to the Pay it Forward platform to generate funding and recover from the impact of coronavirus.

Visit the official UK government website for the latest information on the coronavirus pandemic, or find more coronavirus guidance on the NHS website. 

Last updated: 15 October 2020