Lockdown rules: When can I go on holiday to Wales?

As restrictions ease, travellers are keen to hop the border for a domestic break

(Rex Features)

As coronavirus infection rates continue to fall around the UK, the devolved nations are gradually easing lockdown restrictions to enable a staggered return to normality.

Each of the four nations’ timetables are different, meaning travel between them depends on two sets of rules.

Wales has been the frontrunner when it comes to opening up domestic travel, although only for Welsh residents – but this is set to change over the next few weeks.

Here’s everything we know so far about holidaying in Wales.

Can I holiday within Wales?

Yes. Wales was the first of the devolved nations to allow holidays to take place for residents in time for Easter. If you live in Wales, you can travel without restrictions within the country and stay overnight at self-contained accommodation, such as a holiday cottage or campsite, with those in your household.

Read more: 

• Which countries will be on the ‘green list’? 
• These are the countries welcoming vaccinated travellers 
• How far can you travel in lockdown? Latest April rules explained
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However, outdoor attractions and outdoor hospitality venues (including cafes, pubs and restaurants) won’t be allowed to reopen until 26 April. For those looking to stay with other households, they will likely have to wait until 10 May, the earliest date from which separate families will be able to meet indoors, with extended households able to form between two households.

Can I go on holiday in Wales from England?

It has yet to be confirmed but, if all goes to plan, travel between England and Wales will be allowed from 12 April. The Welsh government says: “If public health conditions permit, the following relaxations can go ahead: travel restrictions within the UK and Common Travel Area will be lifted.”

Can I go on holiday in Wales from Scotland?

Not yet. Although Wales will lift travel restrictions within the UK from 12 April, the Scottish government has its own, more cautious timeline. The earliest possible date would be 26 April, from when those in Scotland may travel freely within the country. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has previously said she hopes travel within the UK may be permitted shortly afterwards.

Can I go on holiday in Wales from Northern Ireland?

Northern Ireland currently has a “stay at home order”, which is due to be lifted on 12 April and swapped for “stay local”. The advice currently states: “You should not travel in or out of Northern Ireland except where it is essential to do so.” It is currently unclear whether those in Northern Ireland will be permitted to indulge in leisure travel within the UK from that date.