England's Covid tier system at a glance - as new rules come into force

England’s new tier system comes into place today (Wed 2 Dec), as the country emerges from its second country-wide lockdown.

However, the restrictions will differ slightly from those in place before England entered into its second lockdown on 5 November, with tighter measures depending on which tier an area falls under.

Tier systems at a glance

The stricter new system was approved by MPs in a vote in the House of Commons on Tuesday (1 Dec), despite 55 Tories voting against the plan.

In all three tiers, non-essential shops, gyms, leisure centres, swimming pools, sports pitches, hairdressers, beauty salons, synagogues, churches and mosques are now allowed to open.

However, there will be different rules in place, depending on tier, especially when it comes to hospitality.

In Tier 2, only pubs serving substantial meals can serve alcohol, but in Tier 3, hospitality will close, except for delivery and takeaway.

In areas where pubs and restaurants are allowed to open, last orders will now be at 10pm, with drinkers allowed until 11pm to finish their drinks.

Indoor performances will also return in Tiers 1 and 2, but with reduced capacity in place.

When it comes to meeting friends and family, a maximum of six people can meet indoors or outdoors in Tier 1.

In Tier 2, there is no mixing of households indoors, and a maximum of six people can meet outdoors.