After a week of speculation, health secretary Matt Hancock has announced that London will, from Wednesday, be subject to Tier 3 restrictions. People may still meet outdoors in large open spaces like parks – subject to the rule of six – and non-essential shops, gyms, leisure facilities and hairdressers are able to remain open. Weddings with a reduced capacity can also go ahead.The headline for hospitality, though, is that restaurants, pubs and bars will be forced to close completely for dine-in trade, though they may still offer takeaway and delivery services. The tier system will continue to be reviewed every seven days from now on; should there be an reduction in cases, London may drop back down into Tier 2, and possibly even Tier 1. Here’s what each means for diners and drinkers. Tier 1 rules for hospitalityAll restaurants, pubs and bars may re-open.Table service only.Rule of six is expected to apply. Last orders will be 10pm, but closing time will be 11pm.Tier 2 rules for hospitalityPubs and bars must close, unless operating as restaurants.Hospitality venues can only serve alcohol with “substantial meals”.Last orders will be 10pm, but closing time will be 11pm.No mixing of households indoors, apart from support bubbles. Rule of six for outdoors. Tier 3 rules for hospitality All hospitality venues are closed, with the exception of sales by takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery.
