Further advice and guidance received this week confirms that coach tours can proceed in Tiers 1 and 2 in England.

The Safer Transport Guidance for Operators confirms that the post-lockdown Tiers do not prevent coach tours and that the previous guidance on social distancing and household groups/bubbles continues to operate.

The guidance states:

“When travelling on coaches passengers must not gather with others outside of their group as permitted under the relevant social contact rules. They should also try to keep within their group and distance themselves from others where possible

“These rules do not place any capacity constraints on public transport services, private hire vehicles or leisure tours.

“Operators should continue to provide transport services which can accommodate separate multiple groups which conform to the requirements of the relevant social contact rules for the relevant regional tier restrictions.”

The DCMS has also published guidance which initially appears to have been misinterpreted by some regarding coach tours. However, CTA has received clarification direct from DCMS which states:

“Guided tours may operate in line with the relevant social contact restrictions in each tier, meaning all groups would need to be kept separate at all times.

“Coach tours may take place in Tiers 1 and 2, in line with social contact restrictions and with all necessary Covid-secure measures in place. They are advised against in Tier 3 given wider advice against travel.”