Six people can meet outdoors in Wales from Saturday – Outdoor hospitality to open on Monday

From Saturday six people from six households will be able to meet outdoors in Wales.

Outdoor hospitality will also be allowed to reopen from Monday [26 April], first minister Mark Drakeford has confirmed.

The current rule provides for up to six people (not including children under 11 years of age or carers) from a maximum of two households to meet outdoors.

The new rules from Saturday will allow six people from six separate households  (not including children under 11 years of age or carers) to meet outdoors.

People should observe social distancing from people from outside their household or support bubble when meeting others outside.

The rules for meeting indoors remain unchanged.

The First Minister has also confirmed outdoor hospitality will be allowed to reopen from Monday 26th April 2021.

Mark Drakeford said: “The public health context in Wales remains favourable, with cases falling and our vaccination programme continues to go from strength to strength.”

“Because meeting outdoors continues to be a lower risk than meeting indoors, we are able to bring forward changes to allow any six people to meet outdoors.”

“This will provide more opportunities for people, especially young people, to meet outdoors with their friends. This will undoubtedly have a significant positive impact on people’s well-being.”

“I’m also pleased to confirm outdoor hospitality will be allowed to reopen from Monday 26th April.”

“These changes will help the hospitality sector recover after a difficult twelve months.”

“It is thanks to the continuing efforts of people across Wales we are able to introduce this change. Together, we will continue to keep Wales safe.”

On Friday (23rd April), the First Minister will confirm further relaxations to the covid rules that will come into force on Monday 26 April.

On Monday 26 April:

• Outdoor attractions, including funfairs and theme parks, would be allowed to reopen;
• Outdoor hospitality can resume, including at cafes, pubs and restaurants. Indoor hospitality will remain closed except for takeaways;
• Organised outdoor activities for up to 30 people can again take place (previously Monday 3 May);
• Weddings receptions can take place outdoors for up to 30 people (previously Monday 3 May).

On Monday 3 May (previously Monday 10 May):

• Gyms, leisure centres and fitness facilities can reopen. This will include individual or one-to-one training but not exercise classes;
• Extended household will again allow two households to meet and have contact indoors.