If you’re in tier 3, gyms and hairdressers can stay open if they follow strict guidelines. Let’s check out what you can expect, and where else you can go in tier 3.
What is tier 3?
England currently has three tiers of coronavirus restrictions: tier 1, tier 2 and tier 3. Tier 3 is the highest level, and it basically means that the area is struggling to cope with the number of coronavirus cases. In tier 3 areas, there’s a higher chance of picking up coronavirus, spreading it to other people and overwhelming the NHS.
Unsurprisingly, there’s a lot you can’t do in a tier 3 area, but there’s plenty you can.
Can gyms and hairdressers open in tier 3?
Yes. It’s not like during the national lockdown when gyms, non-essential shops, salons and hairdressers were forced to close. Here’s what the rules look like now if you plan on visiting a gym or hairdresser in tier 3.
Gyms
- You can’t exercise in a group or attend classes.
- It’s fine to exercise alone or with a member of your household. You can also work out with someone from a support bubble.
- There’s no organised sport indoors in tier 3.
- Some gyms might ask you to wear a face covering, so check with your local gym beforehand so you’re prepared.
If you opt for an outdoor gym instead, just remember that the rule of six still applies.
Hairdressers and barbers
Alongside hairdressers and barbers, venues including nail salons, spas, and tanning salons can open. You should wear a face covering when you’re inside one of these venues unless an exemption applies.
- You’ll probably need to book an appointment.
- Try to arrive just before your appointment time. This helps with social distancing.
- Don’t use close contact services like these if you feel unwell or have any coronavirus symptoms (e.g. a new and continuous cough or fever).
Where’s closed in a tier 3 area?
So we’ve covered what’s open under the tier 3 rules, but let’s briefly remind you what’s still closed.
- Indoor entertainment venues like cinemas.
- Pubs and bars must close but they can offer a takeaway service.
- In cafes and restaurants, seating areas are closed but takeaways are fine.
You shouldn’t meet people indoors if you don’t live together, but it’s okay to see someone outside your household in a large public outdoor space like a park or beach. Just make sure you stick to the rule of six!
One final thing: you shouldn’t travel to or from a tier 3 area. So if your favourite gym or hairdresser is in a tier 2 area but you live in tier 3, you should use a venue within your tier right now.
Takeaway
If you fancy getting in a pre-Christmas haircut or hitting the gym, then you can do this in a tier 3 area.
The rules are subject to change, though, and there’s every chance venues could shut again if the number of coronavirus cases keeps rising. If you’re unsure which level you’re in, or what the rules are, check your local Covid alert level on the gov.uk website.
And remember, just because these venues are open in tier 3 doesn’t mean you need to use them – you could always save a little money this month instead!