After what felt like a never-ending lockdown, things are finally starting to get back to normal in London. So if you're coming to London to study, or you're just looking forward to getting back to reality, fear no more, because London is officially re-open.
BACK IN ACTION
Pubs & bars
After over 100 days of closure, pubs and bars are now officially re-opening in London, ensuring they adhere to government guidance. You will notice a difference to life pre-lockdown however - you'll probably need to book a table, a lot of places will have a one way system, staff may be wearing masks and you'll probably be asked to provide your contact details upon arrival, ensuring we're all keeping safe but not spoiling the fun.
So there are now plenty of places re-opened for you to enjoy a drink in the sun – beer gardens are likely be more popular than ever too, with people keen to make up for lost time in the height of summer. Check out some of the best beer gardens open in London for summer
Restaurants
Endless nights of takeaways during lockdown showed us that eating in a restaurant is something we all took for granted. What we would've given 2 months ago to be asked if we wanted to see the dessert menu.
Restaurants are now able to re-open in London, allowing you to embrace the new normal by treating yourself to a bottomless brunch or dinner with friends – but be sure to observe the latest social distancing rules.
You can expect to see new safety measures in place including widely spaced tables, queuing systems, safety signage, table service, handwashing stations and contactless payments.
Check out a list of the best restaurants re-opened in London
Hairdressers
Are you desperately in need of refreshed highlights or a short back and sides? Wait no longer as hairdressers and barbers have re-opened in London from 4th July. There have been a few changes for your safety that will have to be considered when planning your post-lockdown cut, but nothing too stressful.
You'll definitely have to book an appointment as nowhere seems to be accepting walk-ins (even barbers) and the salon will let you know of any PPE that you might need to wear or anything to bring with you upon your arrival. You can say goodbye to flicking through a magazine in the waiting area though, as you'll probably need to wait outside until your stylist is ready for you, but we're happy to oblige when it's for our safety.
Here's a list of that have re-opened this summer.
Shops & markets
Many highstreet shops in London have already reopened their doors, so you can officially get back into the spirit of shopping til you drop.
Markets have also been opening across London, meaning you can search for market stall treasures or get the street food fix you’ve been dreaming of from local traders, or more well-known places like Camden Market.
You can shop with confidence when visiting shops, department stores, shopping centres and markets, with safety measures including socially distanced queuing, hand sanitiser stations, one-way systems and a limit on capacity. It has been mandatory to wear a mask or face covering in all shops since 25th July.
Check out the opening times for London's most popular shopping strip, Oxford Street
Museums & art galleries
If you've been missing your culture fix during lockdown, you'll be happy to hear that museums and galleries are allowed to re-open in London. Be aware that some have not yet set a date for reopening yet, so make sure to check direct with the venue before heading out.
Or if you're not looking to head out quite yet, check out our for virtual tours of some of the world's most interesting places - visit museums and art galleries from around the world from the comfort of your own home.
Tourist attractions
If you're heading to London for the first time or want to explore more of the city, you'll be pleased to hear that many of the capital's top attractions are re-open for business as well. Here's just a few that are worth visiting this summer:
- London Zoo
- Kew Gardens
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- St Paul's Cathedral
- National Trust Properties
- Thorpe Park
See the latest to find out more about what's open and how to stay safe outside your home.
If you're still trying to decide where you want to live in London, check out our on choosing the area that’s best suited for you.