Scotland reopens beer gardens and outdoor cafes as lockdown eases

People in Scotland will be able to return to beer gardens and pavement cafes as they open for the first time in 15 weeks. 

Customers are being warned that al fresco eating and drinking will not be the same as it was before the lockdown. 

As well as following strict distancing and hygiene rules, they will have to leave their contact details so they can be traced in the event of an outbreak. 

Pubs and restaurants should be able to welcome customers indoors from 15 July.

The opening of beer gardens and outdoor cafes comes after a series of lockdown measures were lifted, including the five mile recreational travel rule for all but part of Dumfries and Galloway. 

Children under 11 no longer have to physically distance from each other or from adults, meaning they can now hug their grandparents. 

Non-essential shops have also reopened but from Friday it will be mandatory for almost everyone to wear a face covering in stores. 

The first minister has also outlined plans to reduce the 2m distancing rule to 1m in certain circumstances and with safeguards.

Read the Scottish Government guidelines on socialising safely.