Wales is now open to cross-border visitors - here are the rules if you're planning a trip

Wales is now open to visitors from other parts of the UK (Photo: Shutterstock)Wales is now open to visitors from other parts of the UK (Photo: Shutterstock)
Wales is now open to visitors from other parts of the UK (Photo: Shutterstock)

After months of being in lockdown, visitors from outside Wales are now permitted to enter the country as travel restrictions are eased.

Previously, the country's "stay local" requirement advised people within Wales to stay within five miles of their home, while people from outside Wales were advised not to visit.

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As of Monday 6 July, however, travel restrictions have been lifted, allowing people to travel around and into Wales for the first time since late March.

Can I visit family in Wales?

Since late July, two households in Wales have been permitted to meet with one another with social distancing measures in place.

However, as of 6 July, two households can join together to form an "extended household" in which they will not have to socially distance.

This means that if you are not part of an "extended household" in Wales you could only visit family at a distance.

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If you are part of an "extended household" social distancing will not be required and overnight stays are permitted.

Can I go on holiday in Wales?

Self-contained holiday accommodation will open in Wales from 11 July, with outdoor attractions and outdoor seating areas in certain restaurants and pubs able to open from 13 July.

As of yet, no date has been given for the opening of indoor pubs, bars and restaurants.

However, while the tourism sector in Wales is keen to kickstart the flow of tourists, First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford has warned that visitors must treat beauty spots and holiday destinations with respect.

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His comments come in the wake of huge amounts of litter being left behind at some of the UK's best-loved beauty spots.

Mr Drakeford asked visitors to check websites and plan ahead, including making alternative arrangements in the event that their destination is too busy.

New guidance - including a reinstated countryside code - will ask visitors to obey social distancing measures and practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

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