Are hotels closing in second lockdown and who can stay in them?

Is a night away off the cards?

Most hotels will have to close (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The announcement of a second nationwide lockdown has sent the already embattled travel industry into a tailspin, and left many Brits wondering whether they can still go on a domestic holiday and spend the night in a hotel.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new rules.

Can hotels in England stay open?

While many non-essential shops and leisure facilities in England are being ordered to close for a month from 5 November, hotels are permitted to stay open – but only for essential stays.

The government advice reads: “Hotels, hostels and other accommodation should only open for those who have to travel for work purposes and for a limited number of other exemptions which will be set out in law.”

In reality, this means most hotels in England will be forced to close.

Who can stay in them?

It’s hard to publish an exhaustive list, as the government has not yet stated what the “limited number of exemptions” are. So far, we know staying overnight somewhere “for work purposes” or “education” is permissible, along with “other legally permitted reasons” – it is as yet unclear what these are.

Can I stay overnight at someone’s house in England?

No, barring the exemptions above.

“Overnight stays and holidays away from primary residences will not be allowed,” read the government guidelines.  

“This includes holidays abroad and in the UK. It also means you cannot stay in a second home, if you own one, or stay with anyone you do not live with or are in a support bubble with.”

Can hotels in Scotland stay open?

It depends which of Scotland’s five tiers the hotel is in. All holiday accommodation can stay open in regions that are level three or below, in line with guidance.

However, when an area enters level four, all holiday accommodation must close to tourists. Hotels, B&Bs and self-catering properties can remain open for essential customers only, such as those travelling for work.

Can hotels in Wales stay open?

Wales is currently in the midst of a two-week “firebreak” lockdown, which is in place until 12.01am on Monday 9 November.

During this time, all accommodation businesses are required to close.  

However, the Welsh government has said that “accommodation which is closed can continue to provide accommodation for anybody who is living there as their main residence as of 6pm on Friday 23 October, or is staying there at that time and is unable to return to their main residence.  

“Accommodation businesses should ensure they do not unintentionally make anyone homeless as a result of closure – for advice they should contact the local authority housing options team.”

Local Authorities or Welsh Ministers can also authorise hotels and guesthouses to offer other services while they’re closed, such as being used to accommodate key workers, patients or homeless people.

Can hotels in Northern Ireland stay open?

Northern Ireland is currently in a four-week lockdown that commenced on 16 October.

During this time, hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs will only be able to operate on a restricted basis. Accommodation can be provided for those already resident; for work-related purposes; for vulnerable people; for those in emergency situations; and people unable to return to their main address. Hotels can continue to host blood donation sessions.

Food and non-alcoholic drinks can be provided to residents staying for permitted purposes, but bars are required to close.

Self-catering accommodation can remain open, but only members of one household or bubble are permitted to stay together.

Access to static caravans remains open, however campsites and services for touring caravans must close.