It’s official – lockdown is lifting in Gloucestershire and across England from Monday 12 April 2021, with non-essential shops, outdoor hospitality, spas, hair salons and more all starting to reopen their doors.
We’re not out of the woods yet, but we’re getting close – with SoGlos rounding up 10 things we can’t wait to get back to safely, now restrictions are easing. Just remember to follow the latest government guidance of hands, face, space and fresh air.
About the sponsor – Gloucestershire County Council
Gloucestershire County Council has been working hard to keep people safe throughout the pandemic – from offering free rapid Covid testing in the community, sharing the latest advice and guidance to distributing financial support to those who need it most.
As lockdown eases, it’s reminding Gloucestershire residents to continue sticking to the government guidance of hands, face, space and fresh air, saying ‘keep going, it will be worth it’ as households begin to mix again.
For the very latest information about Covid-19 in Gloucestershire, visit gloucestershire.gov.uk.
1. Visit a beer garden in Gloucestershire
Just in time for some spring sunshine, beer gardens can reopen from Monday 12 April 2021, offering up to six people or two households the chance to enjoy a refreshing pint, a cool glass of wine or even a cocktail together for the first time in months.
Check out 28 of the best beer gardens in Gloucestershire for some inspiration of where to head.
2. Dine alfresco in Gloucestershire
Gloucestershire is brimming with restaurants, pubs, cafes and hotels with gorgeous gardens, sunny terraces and waterside tables for outdoor eats – offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to full three course meals.
Take a look at the Gloucestershire alfresco dining guide for some of our favourites.
3. Get a haircut in Gloucestershire
Whether you’re in need of a little trim or a full-blown restyle, hair and beauty salons are reopening and we couldn’t be happier. Say goodbye to roots, split ends and grown-out manicures, as Gloucestershire’s hairdressers and beauty therapists are ready to get you looking and feeling your best once again.
See SoGlos’s selection of Gloucestershire hair salons for some inspiration about where to get that much-needed snip!
4. Indulge in some retail therapy in Gloucestershire
With non-essential shops allowed to reopen from Monday 12 April 2021, there’s never been a better time to browse for something new. Refresh your wardrobe; give your home a makeover with some new furniture and accessories; spend time browsing through vintage treasures; or pick up a vinyl record from a music store – and make sure to support your local independent shops.
5. Take a day trip to a Gloucestershire attraction
Gloucestershire has so many gorgeous places to visit – and with travel restrictions easing, it’s a great time to explore all the amazing places on your doorstep.
From admiring the spring colours at Painswick Rococo Garden and Batsford Arboretum to spotting famous filming locations like Puzzlewood or exploring wild art installations in the Forest of Dean.
6. Treat yourself to a spa day in Gloucestershire
With all the stresses and strains of lockdown, take some time to unwind as spas reopen on Monday 12 April 2021.
With beautiful Gloucestershire venues like C Side Spa at Cowley Manor offering indulgent treatments and the chance to hop into a comfy robe and lounge by the pool, there’s never been a better time to book.
7. Book a staycation in Gloucestershire
While foreign shores might be out of reach for a little while longer, the UK has some incredible places to spend a staycation this summer, as overnight stays in self-contained accommodation are permitted from Monday 12 April 2021.
You don’t have to go far to feel like you’re somewhere exotic either – with sandy beaches, treetop retreats and historic cities just a short drive away. See SoGlos’s selection of luxury Cotswolds staycations for some gorgeous places to stay.
8. Hit the gym in Gloucestershire
Whether you’ve missed the weights room or can’t wait to get back in the saddle of a spin bike, it’s time to dig out the Lycra as from Monday 12 April 2021 members of the same household can once again go to an indoor gym.
See SoGlos’s selection of Gloucestershire gyms for inspiration.
9. Watch a movie under the stars in Gloucestershire
Film fans will be delighted that outdoor cinema is set to make a comeback. The Alfresco Film Company will be bringing the big screen to Gloucestershire venues including Sandford Parks Lido and Cowley Manor from May 2021, with a line up of classic movies that everyone can enjoy.
10. Visit wildlife sanctuaries and animal attractions in Gloucestershire
From fluffy chicks to bouncy lambs, Gloucestershire is home to an abundance of cute baby animals at this time of year – and with outdoor attractions like Cotswold Farm Park and Slimbridge Wetland Centre able to reopen from Monday 12 April 2021, it’s a great opportunity to pop on some wellies and meet some new furry and feathered friends.
11. Get married in Gloucestershire
After a long wait for couples, the number of people that can attend weddings rises to 15 after April 2021. Meaning intimate celebrations can finally take place in the county.
See SoGlos’s pick of intimate wedding venues in the Cotswolds if you’re planning your big day.
12. Explore Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds
Gloucestershire is full of fantastic towns and villages to visit. From shopping for designer bargains in Gloucester, soaking up the bohemian vibes in artsy Stroud to discovering quaint Cotswold villages, there’s plenty of places to explore in the county now that travel restrictions are lifting.
Check out SoGlos’s round up of 9 charming Cotswold towns and villages to explore safely this spring.
For the very latest information about Covid-19 in Gloucestershire, visit gloucestershire.gov.uk.
