Know Before You Go

Last Updated Tuesday 15th June  2021

On Monday 14th June 2021, the Prime Minister announced that, in line with the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown, the full lifting of Coronavirus restrictions will be delayed until at least 19^th July 2021.

Currently in England, non-essential travel for leisure purposes is permitted and the majority of tourism and hospitiality businesses can open:

• Outdoor and indoor attractions, including theme parks, gardens, zoos, farm parks, heritage sites, museums, visitor centres and leisure centres.
• Accommodation, including hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, inns, hostels, campsites, holiday parks, narrowboats, glamping and self-catering properties.
• Indoor and outdoor hospitality venues, including pubs, inns, bars, restaurants, cafes, tea rooms and coffee shops. 
• Non-essential retail including, shops, shopping centres, outlet stores and factory shops.

However, Coronavirus remains a serious threat, so there are still some restrictions in place to prevent the spread – whether you have been vaccinated or not.

If you are planning a visit to Staffordshire before 19th July, please Know Before You Go – check with individual businesses before you travel, so you’re aware of their requirements for social distancing, advance booking and face coverings.

Full information is available on individual businesses’ websites, Facebook pages or social media channels so please check online.

You can also find the latest public health announcements on Coronavirus at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Booking in advance

As in the rest of England, in Staffordshire it is still important to maintain a 2m distance from anyone not in your household or support bubble.

You will need to book your visit to certain attractions in advance, even free admission attractions, as they are limiting visitor numbers to help with social distancing.

You may also need to book a table if you are planning to visit a pub or restaurant.

 

Face coverings

You must wear a face covering indoors, for example in shops, accommodation, indoor attractions and on public transport.

You may also be required to wear one in outdoor settings, such as attractions, and when not at your table in a pub or restaurant.

Please bring a mask with you, unless you are under 11, or exempt for health reasons.  

Test & Trace

To assist with NHS Test & Trace, pubs, restaurants, cinemas and other venues are required by law to take all customer data, which is kept for 21 days and then destroyed.

This is to help the NHS reach you, if you have been in close proximity to someone who tests positive for Coronavirus.

On arrival, visitors must check-in using the NHS COVID-19 app, which is free to download.

If you don't have a smartphone, or can't use the app, your details will be manually recorded and stored.

Enhanced Cleanliness

Our attractions, eateries, hotels and restaurants have set up hand sanitiser stations to help combat the spread of Coronavirus, but if you are travelling to rural areas, we would recommend bringing your own hand sanitiser.

To maintain a clean environment, many of our businesses are not accepting cash, because the virus can be passed on via coins and notes. Please ensure you have a bank card with you for contactless payments.

Respect, Protect, Enjoy

We all have a responsibility to park safely, in designated spaces.

Some of our car parks may be busy when you visit, so have an alternative in mind, or consider returning another day if possible.

In rural areas, please observe the Countryside Code – respect, protect and enjoy.

• Respect: consider the local community and others using the countryside.
• Park considerately, ensuring gateways and driveways are clear, and leave the area as you found it, for example by closing gates behind you.
• Protect: please take any litter and dog poo home with you, and keep dogs under control. Don’t have BBQs or light fires.
• Enjoy: we want you to enjoy Staffordshire’s wonderful green spaces, so do your research and Know Before You Go, and stick to social distancing measures.

If you have symptoms of Coronavirus

If you are experiencing the symptoms of COVID-19, we ask that you avoid travelling, stay at home, and book a Coronavirus test.

The current Government guidelines ask you to self-isolate for at least 10 days if you are experiencing symptoms, or have been informed by NHS Test & Trace that you have been in close contact with someone with Coronavirus.

For full details of Government and public health advice on Coronavirus, visit the UK Government website and the NHS website.