No rain on Monday? We’ll all drink to that!
Forecast brings good news for al fresco dining (but you’ll still need your coat)
MONDAY is the day Britain has been waiting for, when pubs and restaurants open for outdoor service.
And as if that wasn’t exciting enough, forecasters last night said the weather is expected to stay dry and bright – although anyone venturing for an outside drink should probably take a coat.
Temperatures are likely to hover between 5C and 10C (41F to 50F) across much of the country. But the weathermen believe it will stay largely dry, with sunny spells.
Met Office spokesman Nicola Maxey said Monday will be ‘a cold day with bright weather for most’, adding: ‘It’s certainly looking fine, dry and cold in the South.’
Southern areas and London could see slightly warmer temperatures of up to 12C (53F), she said, but added: ‘The further
‘It’s looking fine, dry and cold’
north you go, the colder it is and there’s a risk of showery rain for Cumbria.’
Monday will also see high streets bursting back into life as non-essential shops reopen at last, and barbers and hairdressers will also welcome customers again.
But it is the opportunity for a spot of al fresco dining or drinking that many are looking forward to.
Several councils across the country, including Westminster and Newcastle, have shut off roads and allocated pavement space to help restaurants and cafes accommodate demand with extra seating.
Beer gardens are expected to be at full capacity, with major pub chains including Fuller’s and Mitchells & Butlers saying they have seen ‘ significant interest’ in regulars returning.
Pubgoers have been advised to run up tabs so they can avoid multiple trips indoors to pay for food and drink.
Official advice to businesses says the tab system will ‘ ensure that customers do not need to make multiple indoor payments during their time at the venue’.
The Department for Business said reports and rumours on social media that there would be a ban on taking payment indoors, potentially forcing people to pay with cash outside, were incorrect.
A spokesman said: ‘If payment is not possible outdoors, payment can be taken indoors as a last resort. This is to ensure we limit the use of indoor space and protect people by stopping the spread of the disease.’
Indoor dining and drinking will remain forbidden until May 17.
Monday also marks a return for indoor leisure, including gyms and swimming pools, for the first time in more than three months. And those who want to get away from it all altogether will be allowed to travel domestically with their households on a ‘staycation’.
Last week holiday home rental company Cottages.com said that two-thirds of its properties in coastal locations or with hot tubs have been booked for the week beginning April 12.
Theme parks also reopen on Monday. The number of guests allowed at weddings will increase to 15, and funerals will be allowed to take place with up to 30 people.
Care home residents will be allowed two visitors, driving tests will resume and non-essential journeys between England and Wales will also be allowed again.