What is a face covering?

A face covering is something that safely covers the nose and mouth. You can buy re-useable or single-use face coverings. You may also use a scarf, bandana, religious garment or hand-made cloth covering. They must fit securely around your face, with ties or ear loops. You should be able to breathe comfortably. You should avoid wearing it on your neck or forehead.

What do you need to know before your visit?

As legislation is currently different in England and Wales, we have split the information for you.

Staying in Bristol and Plymouth, England

From Saturday 8th August 2020, you are required to wear face coverings in the following locations:

• Public areas of hotels
• Shops, indoor shopping centres and supermarkets
• Indoor transport hubs and when on public transport and in taxis
• Cinemas, theatres, bingo halls and concert halls
• Entertainment venues such as amusement arcades, funfairs, escape rooms, go-karting, etc
• In tourist attractions such as museums, galleries, aquariums, indoor zoos and farms, and other indoor heritage or cultural sites
• It also covers beauty parlours, library’s and community centres, and places of worship. 

Dining in the restaurant

Face coverings are not required in restaurants with table service, bars, and pubs. You should put a face-covering back on once you leave your seating area.

You could be fined for not complying

If you do not wear a face-covering in places where it is mandatory, you may be asked to leave by staff. Enforcement of fines can only be carried out by the police. Failing to wear a face-covering will result in a fine of up to £100, or £50 if paid within 14 days.

Staying in Cardiff, Wales

From Monday 27th July 2020, you are required to wear face coverings in the following locations:

• When on public transport and in taxis

The police or environmental health officers can issue a fixed penalty if you do not do this. A first offence is punishable by a penalty of £60 (which doubles for each subsequent offence up to a maximum of £1920). Repeat offenders could also be prosecuted in court where there is no limit to the fine that may be issued.

It is currently not mandatory to wear face coverings in shops, and tourist attractions or in the public areas of the hotel. However, it is highly recommended that you do. Some establishments may also ask you to put one on.

Update - From 14th September 2020

Face masks are compulsory in indoor public spaces in Wales.

Some people are exempt from wearing a face-covering

Please be mindful and respectful, as some people are medically exempt from wearing a face covering, and that their reasons may not be visible to others.

Those who have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face-covering should not be routinely asked to give any written evidence of this, this includes exemption cards. However, some people may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering. This could be in the form of an exemption card, badge or even a home-made sign. This is a personal choice and is not necessary by law.

In Wales, it is highly recommended that you carry information that demonstrates why you have a reasonable excuse not to wear a face covering. Such as a prescription, hospital appointment letter, or an exemption card.

This information was put together from legislation provided by the UK Government. Changes can be made at any time, so we would highly recommend reading through the information here.

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