These are the rules around having a BBQ during lockdown - and the fines for flouting them

By Claire Schofield
Published 9th Apr 2020, 15:00 BST
Updated 19th May 2020, 12:08 BST
Lockdown rules means Brits should remain indoors, despite the warm weather (Photo: Shutterstock)Lockdown rules means Brits should remain indoors, despite the warm weather (Photo: Shutterstock)
Lockdown rules means Brits should remain indoors, despite the warm weather (Photo: Shutterstock)

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With temperatures now starting to hot up as the UK heads towards summer, many people will be itching to spend time outside.

As lockdown rules start to be eased across the country, with unlimited exercise now allowed in England, Scotland and Wales, Brits can now make the most of enjoying time outdoors - but what do the rules say about barbecues?

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Can I have a BBQ during lockdown?

The UK government has outlined a three-phase plan to ease the country out of lockdown.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a number of changes to current measures in a national address on Sunday (10 May), unveiling a “road map for reopening society”.

As of Wednesday (11 May), people in England are being encouraged to take unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise and play sports, but only with members of their household.

Visiting and sunbathing in local parks will also be allowed, along with outdoor picnics and barbecues, providing social distancing guidelines are followed.

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While Scotland has scrapped its cap on daily exercise, Scots have been warned against meeting up in groups at parks or beaches, and to avoid sunbathing, picnics and barbecues.

Going outside to exercise more than once a day is now allowed in Wales, but should still be done locally and not a significant distance from the home.

But the stay at home message still remains, meaning people are not allowed to head to parks or gather in outdoor spaces to enjoy a barbecue.

Northern Ireland is allowing groups of between four and six people who do not share a household to meet up outdoors, meaning people could have a barbecue togeher, so long as a two metre social distance is maintained.

Am I allowed to have a BBQ at home?

While unlimited outdoor exercise is now permitted in some parts of the UK, mass gatherings are still not allowed.

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In England, Scotland and Wales, visiting the homes of family and friends is still prohibitied, with police having the authority to issue fines if such rules are broken.

This means you should not invite your family and friends for a BBQ at your home.