Can I still go to the dentist?
Unlike the previous lockdown, dentists will remain open and will continue to welcome patients for routine appointments. This move comes after the Prime Minister encouraged people not to neglect their NHS appointments, despite the severe new lockdown measures.
Can I still visit a garden centre?
Yes, garden centres will remain open throughout the latest lockdown, as they are among the essential stores, to sell goods which the public will need to access throughout November. However, it is vital these centres follow the appropriate social distancing measures in order to keep shoppers safe throughout the new lockdown.
Will estate agents close?
The housing secretary, Robert Jenrick, suggested that the housing market will remain in business throughout the second lockdown, in a statement which contrasts the rules of the first lockdown in March. However, there has been no word on whether estate agents will be physically forced to close their doors over the coming month, as all ‘non- essential retail’ will pause until December 2nd.
Will golf courses stay open?
Golf courses will be forced to close over lockdown, alongside all leisure and sports centres, gyms, swimming pools and other exercise locations.
Read more: What sport can I still play in lockdown?
Are vets open?
Veterinary practices are classed as essential businesses and so can stay open.
The Government has confirmed vets will be allowed to stay open, providing they follow Covid-secure guidelines.
Members of the veterinary team should work from home if possible and veterinary professionals should exercise clinical judgement to assess and triage essential animal health and welfare needs in the context of the lockdown.
Are recycling centres open?
Yes, recycling centres will remain open.
The Government website says the majority of public services will continue and you will be able to leave home to visit them. Among these services recycling centres are listed.
Are opticians open?
The Government have said that opticians will remain open throughout the lockdown. The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has confirmed this with NHS England.
In the first lockdown, routine procedures and check ups for optical care were delayed, while emergency treatment was still allowed.
Opticians will now be allowed to provide routine sight tests and offer emergency care.
In some areas, the wait for an appointment may be longer. Practises may have to prioritise patients based on the greatest need.
Practises must be Covid-safe and follow the public health advice to ensure correct PPE and infection control processes are in place.
Are banks open?
Banks are among some of the businesses which are permitted to stay open.
The Government have listed banks, building societies, post offices, loan providers and money transfer businesses as being allowed to stay open during the four week lockdown.
They must follow Covid-secure guidelines and ensure all the necessary PPE is worn.
Are Greggs & McDonalds open?
Although hospitality venues such as cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars and social clubs are closed, venues are still allowed to provide food and drink for takeaway (before 10pm; and not including alcohol). This includes drive-through or delivery.
Greggs is allowed to remain open during lockdown.
The bakery will be open for takeaway and delivery orders. These can be place on JustEat, the Greggs website or Greggs Rewards app.
While seating remains closed, branches will remain open for customers to pick up their orders.
Dine-in areas in McDonalds are also closed but it’s Drive-Thru sites are still open, and it still offers takeaway and delivery services via Uber Eats and Just Eat.
However, McDonald’s UK chief executive Paul Pomroy has said that some restaurants operating hours and services may vary.
Is Halfords open?
Halfords will remain open for the four week lockdown.
As an essential retailer and following government guidance, the stores, garages and mobile experts will remain open across the country in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Halfords published on their website, “We will continue to operate in a way that is safe for both our customers and colleagues.”
Although the stores that remain open may change over time, you can find the opening hours of shops and garages near you here.
Their mobile services will continue to serve customers, and they’re open 24/7 online at www.halfords.com for delivery.
Read more: New Covid lockdown rules for England: what the latest restrictions mean for you