Know Before You Go

Last Updated Friday 10th December 2021

On Wednesday 8th December 2021, the Prime Minister announced that there would be new requirements for wearing face coverings and showing your NHS Covid Pass to enter some tourism and hospitality businesses.

From Friday 10th December, you are expected to wear a face covering on public transport, and at public indoor venues, including:

• cinemas
• theatres
• shops
• takeaways
• communal areas in shopping centres

You do not have to wear one in food & drink venues such as pubs and restaurants, or accommodation businesses like hotels.

From Wednesday 15th December, you will need to show the NHS Covid Pass, or proof of a negative lateral flow test, to enter:

• nightclubs
• unseated indoor venues with more than 500 people
• unseated outdoor venues with more than 4,000 people
• any venue with more than 10,000 people

So, if you are planning a visit to Staffordshire before Christmas, please Know Before You Go – check with individual businesses before you travel, so you’re aware of their requirements for wearing face coverings and showing your NHS Covid Pass. 

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

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.

 

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.