Edinburgh coronavirus restrictions: Here's a full list of the 14 lockdown rules changing in Edinburgh on Monday April 26 including reopening of beer gardens, restaurants and gyms

There will be a collective sigh of relief across Edinburgh as the city moves into Level 3 of the Scottish Government’s route map out of lockdown next week – here’s a list of everything reopening on Monday.

From Monday (April 26), people in the Capital can celebrate their newfound freedom as hospitality, non-essential shops, gyms, swimming pools, museums and galleries reopen.

There will also be unrestricted travel within Scotland, England and Wales.

The latest stage in lockdown easing was announced at a scheduled Covid-19 briefing by Nicola Sturgeon this week.

Giving us the news we all wanted to hear, the First Minister said the continued decline in coronavirus cases meant the strict rules can be eased earlier than planned.

If all goes well, the move will be followed on May 17 when Scotland moves from Level 3 to Level 2.

Here are 14 changes being made to Edinburgh’s lockdown rules from Monday.

Enjoy a drink in a beer garden

Edinburgh breaths a sigh of relief as it moves into level three.

People across the city will be raising a glass with friends in beer gardens across the city as pubs are allowed to serve alcohol outdoors until 10pm.

Tables must be booked in advance and contact details need to be given.

Restaurants and pubs across the city have already been spotted sorting outdoor seating areas, particularly on George Street, the Grassmarket and down Leith Walk.

The Scottish Government say that local licensing laws apply outdoors.

People in the Capital will be able to enjoy a drink with friends in beer gardens from Monday (April 26). Photo: Gary Flockhart

Go for a bite to eat

Hospitality venues like cafes, pubs and restaurants can open until 8pm indoors – but without alcohol.

Up to six people from two households can get together. Again, always book ahead to be sure.

Hit the gym

Hospitality, shops and gyms will reopen from April 26.

It’s time to work off the lockdown belly as gyms reopen for the first time this year.

A reminder that the Scottish Government specifies that only individual exercise will be allowed, as group sports for adults are not yet permitted.

Go for a swim

There’s no need to go cold-water swimming at Porty beach, as Edinburgh Leisure will be opening the likes of the Royal Commonwealth Pool on Monday.

Swimming lessons for children are allowed to resume from Monday, but adult lessons will have to wait until level two.

Shop ‘till you drop

After months of quiet city centre streets, the hope is the likes of Princes Street and George Street will be buzzing again as non-essential shops reopen.

Shops will still require you to wear a mask, and sanitising stations and social distancing measures may be implemented.

Here’s a jam-packed list of stores reopening on Princes Street from Monday, including Primark, H&M and Next.

Get your nails done

Close contact services such as beauty salons can reopen, which will come as a relief to many people across the Capital.

Take driving lessons

Driving lessons and tests get the green light as the restrictions ease.

Have work done inside your home

Non-essential work inside people’s homes – such as painting, decorating or repairing – can take place.

Again, mask wearing will be required, and advice includes opening windows and doors while someone is working in your house.

Take out a library book

National rules say libraries can reopen from April 26, but in Edinburgh you will have to wait a while longer to take out books.

Edinburgh Libraries say they hope to be able to open their doors and welcome you back into their buildings as soon as they can.

Your Library is always open online to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers

Enjoy a day at the museum

Indoor attractions and public buildings such as art galleries and museums can reopen, with the Scottish National Gallery, the National Museum of Scotland and the National Portrait Gallery among many in the Capital preparing to welcome back eager visitors.

Get a tan

Sure, the weather’s been decent lately – but with sunbed studios reopening those who like to be bronzed can get an extra UV fix.

After a long winter, there will be many jumping at the chance.

Attend a large wedding

Funerals and weddings – including post-funeral events and receptions – will be allowed to take place with up to 50 people.

The Scottish Government have added that alcohol will also be permitted at these events.

Get out of the city

Travel between Scotland, England and Wales will be permitted.

We’ve compiled a list of 13 quirky day trips all in striking distance of the Capital.

Lower your shield

Adults on the shielding list can return to the workplace, if they cannot work from home, while children who have been shielding can return to school

The full breakdown of the Scottish Government's timetable for easing restrictions is available here.

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