- London has now moved to step four of the UK government's roadmap.
- If you are using public transport, plan ahead and travel at quieter times – cycle or walk where possible.
- You must wear a face covering at Transport for London (TfL) stations and on all services, including the Tube, trains and buses.
- Find the latest information on the official UK government website.
London has now moved to step four of the UK government's roadmap.
Make sure to follow the latest government guidelines and act responsibly when out and about in the capital.
If you’re not able to visit London yet, you can still experience the capital from your sofa with our Virtually London guide. We look forward to welcoming you back soon!
Can I travel to London?
There are some restrictions in place for people travelling to London from outside the UK.
International visitors arriving from certain countries are currently prohibited from entering England.
Make sure to follow the rules around self-isolation, providing contact details and getting tested before you travel. You will also be required to quarantine in a hotel for 10 days when travelling from certain countries.
Find out everything you need to know about travelling to the UK, including the latest rules for entering England from countries on the red, amber and green lists.
Latest London coronavirus lockdown rules
What are the current guidelines in London?
London has moved to step four of the UK government's roadmap.
If you're travelling, plan ahead and avoid busy times on public transport – walk or cycle where possible.
You should wear a face covering in crowded places. It is mandatory to wear a face covering at Transport for London (TfL) stations and on all services, including the Tube, bus, tram and DLR.
There are longer any legal limits on the number of people you can meet indoors and outdoors. However, the UK government recommends continuing to minimise your social contact.
Find out more about the current coronavirus guidance in London.
What are the steps for lifting the London lockdown?
The UK government is following four steps for easing lockdown in London and the rest of England.
Step one: Since 29 March, you can meet in a group of up to six people or two households outdoors.
Step two: Since 12 April, all shops can reopen in London. You can visit outdoor attractions such as zoos and drive-in cinemas, and sit outdoors for a meal or drink at hospitality venues. Self-contained accommodation can also welcome guests from the same household or bubble.
Step three: Since 17 May, you are allowed to meet in a group of up to six people or two households indoors, and a group of up to 30 people outdoors. You can visit the city's indoor attractions, entertainment and hospitality venues, including museums, galleries, pubs, bars, restaurants and theatres. Accommodation across London can also reopen.
Step four: Since 19 July, nightclubs can reopen their dancefloors. There also are no longer any legal limits on how many people you can meet.
For more information, take a look at the UK government's full roadmap out of lockdown.
London attractions, venues and events
London's attractions, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres, hotels and nightclubs are open following the easing of coronavirus restrictions, although some venues may still remain closed. Find out what’s open and when in the capital.
You should check direct with venues for further information about entry requirements, face coverings and special safety measures in place ahead of your visit.
Some major London events may have been postponed, cancelled or moved online due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Take a look at some of the top London activities after lockdown.
Pre-booked tickets
Most attractions and events must be booked in advance.
If you have tickets for a performance, event or attraction which has to make changes due to coronavirus, your ticket provider will contact you to discuss exchange or refund options.
If you are unwell or self-isolating at the time of your booking, please contact your ticket supplier to discuss options.
If you’ve booked tickets through visitlondon.com, refer to these booking FAQs for more information and contact details.
Staycations in London
There's so much to do in London on a fun-filled staycation. Discover more inspiration for your trip with our Let's Do London guide, from family activities and foodie fun to top attractions and amazing things to do in the capital.
Make sure to also 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.
Guidance for staying safe
Visit the official UK government website for all the latest coronavirus guidance, including how to protect yourself and others.
Face coverings
It is mandatory to wear a face covering at Transport for London stations and on all services, including Tubes, buses, tram, DLR, Overground and TfL Rail.
The UK government also recommends wearing a face covering in crowded areas to help keep yourself and others safe during your visit to London.
Find more information on face coverings.
Public transport
If you're using public transport, travel at quieter times for more space and wear a face covering on all TfL services. Alternatively, consider making your journey by cycling or walking.
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.
Across the TfL network, there's regular cleaning using antiviral disinfectant, hand sanitiser stations and fresh air ventilation on buses, trains and Tubes to help you travel safely in London.
For the latest travel information, visit the Transport for London website.
Protecting yourself and others
If you feel unwell during your trip to London, there are specific procedures in place for anyone experiencing symptoms – find full information on the official UK government website.
You can also seek further advice on the NHS website, including how to get a free test for coronavirus.
To help stop the spread of the virus, make sure you:
- Self-isolate immediately if you develop coronavirus symptoms and get a test.
- Wear a face covering in crowded public spaces and when travelling on public transport. This measure applies across all TfL services and stations.
- Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and warm water throughout the day. 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.
Follow the UK government's guidance on ways to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
More useful information
The “We’re Good to Go” industry standard mark ensures the places you visit are adhering to UK government and public health guidance. 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 “See it Safely” mark at theatre venues, which ensures they are following coronavirus safety guidelines.
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 COVID-19.
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: 22 July 2021