Hotels likely to KEEP Covid restrictions post Freedom Day to avoid staff outbreaks

HOTELS in the UK are likely to keep restrictions in place even after Freedom Day, despite plans to lift all lockdown measures.

From July 19, all restrictions will be lifted meaning masks and social distancing will no longer be mandatory.

However, worried hotel owners are likely to keep the rules in place to protect staff, as a number of pubs and hotels have been forced to close due to Covid outbreaks.

Jane Pendlebury, CEO of The Hospitality Professionals Association (HOSPA), told Sun Online Travel: "Post Freedom Day, a lot of hotels are considering keeping some of the processes in place like the queueing and one way systems, to try to keep staff safe."

While she added that they won't be "strictly enforced," she said: "They are not necessarily letting those barriers down."

She also said that most hotels are struggling with a lack of staff due to Covid and the furlough scheme – putting even more pressure on them to avoid outbreaks if social distancing isn't followed.

A number of restaurants and hotels were forced to close near Carbis Bay last month due to outbreaks of the virus following the G7 summit.

Post Freedom Day, a lot of hotels are considering keeping some of the processes in place

Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall was also forced to close her Newcastle bar last week after they received a Covid alert.

Yesterday, passengers faced chaos at Heathrow Airport due to hundreds of security staff being pinged by the Track & Trace app.

However, Jane also added that families wanting a bargain should opt for cities instead of the coast this summer, with some of them at just 25 per cent occupancy during the week.

When asked if this was the best year to go on a city break, she said "definitely," adding: "There are deals left right and centre, and its not as busy."

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Hotels are offering lots of incentives to get Brits to return to the cities – hotels across Leeds have a 3-for-2 deal with guests getting their third night free, while Hilton hotels have complimentary treats for kids including treasure hunts, mini bathrooms and kid mocktails.

Jane also explained how to get the best deal this summer, even if trying to book a trip by the seaside.

She explained: "If you find a cheaper rate online, quote that to the hotel and they should, if they have any business sense, match that rate.

"Because it is much more cost effective or the hotel to take a direct booking then to take any pay commission to any agency."

We've rounded up some of the best luxury hotel deals which won't break the bank – of if you're on a budget, the new Travelodge hotels opening in the UK with rooms from just £29 a night.

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