Archive: These are historical restrictions from 2021, not current rules. See NHS COVID-19 information for current guidance.

On 4 January 2021, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced England’s third national lockdown as infections and hospital admissions rose. People were told to stay at home except for specified reasons. The new regulations came into force on 6 January.

What changed?

Most pupils moved to remote learning. Schools and colleges remained open to vulnerable children and children of critical workers; early-years settings and special schools also remained open. Non-essential retail, leisure and hospitality venues closed, with some services such as food takeaway and delivery still allowed. Alcohol could be delivered but could not be collected as takeaway.

People could exercise with their household or support bubble, or with one other person. The government said exercise should be limited to once per day and advised against travelling outside the local area. This was guidance; the original article incorrectly described exercise as unlimited.

Some services remained open with restrictions, including garden centres, essential market stalls, banks, places of worship and outdoor playgrounds. Dental care was not limited to emergencies: the British Dental Association described practices continuing to provide care. Veterinary practices could provide essential services, following professional guidance. House moves and related activities could continue subject to guidance; the original report’s comparison with a complete ban during the first lockdown was inaccurate.

How long did it last?

In January, the prime minister described mid-February as a tentative point for considering easing restrictions, dependent on conditions and vaccination progress. England’s roadmap announced in February began easing measures on 8 March. The final step was delayed and began on 19 July 2021.

The variant

At the time, the government was concerned about the more transmissible B.1.1.7 variant, later known as Alpha. A January 2021 SAGE record discusses the evidence and uncertainty available then.