Are Hotels Open? Alternative Accommodations during COVID-19

Self-isolation and contact tracing when travelling

Additionally, the UK is implementing a travel policy that requires all those coming into the country from abroad to self-isolate for 14 days after arrival. This includes UK citizens who have returned from a trip abroad. Visitors and UK citizens returning home will, therefore, be required to share their contact details before they arrive. This policy varies slightly depending on whether visitors will be staying in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

New cleanliness and social distancing standards

Hotel chains and independent hotels are making preparations to reopen under new government guidelines. For example, the St. Moritz Hotel in Cornwall is even reinventing their restaurant to create a socially distanced dining experience called the Anti-Social Club.  Various hotels across England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are all planning ways to re-open safely and abide by new guidelines. Wales is taking a more cautious approach to lifting restrictions and have not yet outlined plans to reopen hotels. Welsh Ministers will review requirements and restrictions every 21 days. 

So, whether you are looking to stay in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, the opening of hotels depends on the individual country restrictions, so check before you travel!

These hotels and many vacation rentals are implementing strict cleanliness and social distancing rules. New initiatives include enhanced cleaning measures like more frequent cleaning of common areas, hand sanitizer readily available, and aerosol cleaners to disinfect the air. Most hospitality venues are requiring masks, enforcing social distancing, spacing out check-in times, and possibly even limiting common areas like hotel gyms and restaurants.

Other accommodations and places to stay in the UK

A domestic holiday is a great option for those wanting to avoid quarantining upon returning from abroad or the increased waiting times at airports. To make a domestic holiday extra special, travellers can look to more than just a hotel with alternative accommodations such as cottages, apartments, B&Bs or even campsites!

Holiday Cottages

Holiday cottages have always been a popular alternative to hotels in the UK, and in the time of COVID-19 they’ll offer a private experience away from others which may be preferred by some guests. Many have private outdoor spaces and stunning views, making them great for families, friends or couples. For a lovely coastal trip, browse cottages for rent in Devon.

Book Apartments or flats for holiday

If you’re craving a short break after being locked down, there is also a huge range of apartments and flats available across the UK. Now is the perfect time to visit places you’ve always wanted to visit but never got around to!  Apartments can offer the same privacy as cottages, but in a smaller layout, perfect for couples or a small family.  In Brighton, visitors can experience the sights and sounds of the historic city, go for a dip in the sea, and enjoy a walk in the idyllic downs just a short drive away. Browse apartments in Brighton’s city centre or near the beach.

Outdoor accommodations and campsites

The great outdoors might be the preferred option for travellers and city dwellers who are missing natural scenery. A caravan park or campsite/glampsite are great alternatives for a short, nature-filled getaway, and often offer an affordable solution for those looking for the same privacy as in an apartment or cottage. The Little Hide in York is a glamping experience perfect for those who want fresh air with an option of sightseeing on the side, boasting proximity to a National Trust site, a forest with biking trails, and York, with its rich history and beautiful buildings.

While it will take time to return to pre-COVID normalcy, UK residents will hopefully be able to go on that much needed holiday, provided rates of coronavirus infections are low. Alternative accommodations in the UK such as cottages, glampsites, and apartments are also excellent ways to take a holiday whilst remaining somewhat secluded.