The date when ALL coronavirus restrictions could be lifted after Boris Johnson unveils road to freedom

Nearly a year after the Government imposed the first stay-at-home order, the country is eyeing the return to normal life when all restrictions on social contact could be lifted from June 21 at the earliest.
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In unveiling his four-step plan to release England from lockdown at the House of Commons on Monday (February 22), Prime Minister Boris Johnson said all remaining social contact could be lifted, where larger events can go ahead and nightclubs could finally reopen.

The changes however will be implemented in four stages, with schools in the first stage and the last stage will include indoor hospitality.

But these are subject to change as the Government will look at the Covid-related data to assess the impact of relaxing of measures.

Members of the public enjoy their first drink in a beer garden (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)Members of the public enjoy their first drink in a beer garden (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
Members of the public enjoy their first drink in a beer garden (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

When can children return to schools?

From March 8, all pupils in all year groups in England can go back to the classroom for face-to-face teaching, with outdoor after-school sports and activities allowed to resume.

But face masks are required to be worn by secondary school pupils in corridors and in the classroom.

Scotland and Wales however will not adopt the approach as they have a staggered return to school.

When can I meet my friends and family?

From March 8, one-on-one meetings in outdoor, public spaces will be allowed. This means, you are now allowed to meet a friend from another household in an outdoor setting.

Care home residents will also be able to meet one visitor.

On March 29, the rule of six will return and the stay-at-home order will end. However, staying local is still highly encouraged.

Two separate households will also be allowed to gather together.

With social limits expected to be lifted no earlier than June 21, people can now reunite with their families and friends as larger social gatherings will finally be allowed.

How about team sports?

Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, including grassroots football will reopen from March 29.

When will non-essential retail open?

The earliest date given for this sector is on April 12, including museums, libraries and theme parks.

Can I meet my friends for a drink at a pub or a restaurant?

Pubs and restaurants are expected to start operating from April 12 and there will no longer be substantial meal requirements for alcohol orders. But the rule of six remains in place.

No curfews will be set in terms of opening hours.

After May 17, indoor seating will open with the rule of six restrictions still in place.

After this date, there will be no limits to the number socialising outdoors.

When will the barbers and hairdressers open?

On April 12 at the earliest, people can get a haircut.

When can I attend my friend's wedding?

The Government said all legal limits of life events will be removed no earlier than June 21.

When can I travel again?

On April 12, the Global Travel Taskforce will report with recommendations to facilitate international travel as soon as possible and it is expected that it should resume no earlier than May 17.