Coronavirus Advice for Travellers to the South of Scotland

by Scotland Starts Here, 19th March 2020
Loch Trool
Coronavirus Advice for Travellers to the South of Scotland
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Last updated: Thursday 7 April 2022

Please check below for official Scottish and UK guidance on COVID-19 (coronavirus) for travellers, as well as resources for travelling safely to and within Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders. The health and safety of visitors and residents is of paramount importance, and we want to share ongoing advice.

Key Information

  • No COVID-19 travel rules apply for entering Scotland regardless of your country of origin or your vaccination status. Travel rules for people arriving from abroad ended on Friday 18 March. 
  • If you’re visiting Scotland from another country, you should check your own government’s advice about travelling home after visiting Scotland.

Will coronavirus impact my travels to the South of Scotland? 

Face coverings are STILL LEGALLY required in most indoor public spaces including shops, restaurants, bars and public transport (becomes guidance on 18 April).

Take a lateral flow tests regularly if you do not have symptoms until 18 April.

The situation is constantly evolving and you should check the Scottish government website for regulartions and advice.

Please keep in mind that businesses may revise their opening times. Always check ahead and, where possible, pre-book before travelling. 

Stay informed. Here’s what you need to know:

Face coverings:

  • Face coverings are mandated by law for the over 12s and must still be worn in most indoor public places and on public transport. 
  • shops
  • bars, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs

Regular testing:

Take regular lateral flow tests twice a week (required until 18 April).

COVID Vaccine certificate:

Vaccine certification is no longer legally required, but some businesses may still be using them for safety reasons. Please check before you head out for the day.

When you travel:

  • Know before you go: Follow guidance from the government and individual businesses. Check directly with businesses for restrictions and guidance before you travel.
  • Download the Protect Scotland app for free from the App Store or Google Play Store. The app will alert you if you have been in close contact with another user who has tested positive for coronavirus. As it works anonymously through Bluetooth, your privacy is protected.
  • Look out for the Good to Go scheme logo. It shows if a business has carried out a Covid-19 risk assessment. Businesses will also be able to tell you what safety measure will be in place when you visit.
  • Respect, Protect, Enjoy: Please be considerate of local communities when travelling. Protect yourself and others by following health and safety guidelines. Support your local tourism industry and consider exploring off the beaten path if a place gets too busy.
  • If you explore the outdoors, whether on foot, by bike, or even on the water, please respect our landscapes. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code applies all year-round and offers great advice on how to enjoy our places safely.

If you develop symptoms:

  • If you develop Covid-19 symptoms while travelling Scotland, please self-isolate in your accommodation and follow the advice from the Scottish Government.

Travel to Scotland from abroad

No COVID-19 travel rules apply for entering Scotland. Travel rules for people arriving from abroad ended on Friday 18 March. 

When travelling to and around Scotland, you may encounter transport disruptions or new guidelines. Check with your car rental company for any additional information you may need. Further information and current schedules for public transport networks in the Lothians, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway are available from ScotRail, Lothian Buses, Borders Buses and Dumfries & Galloway Council. 

Always make sure you stay up to date with the latest official government advice.

Further Information

  • We must all do our part in preventing the transmission of COVID-19, and it is crucial to follow guidance on preventative measures. Visit the NHS website for information on how to keep yourself and others safe, as well as frequently asked questions. 
  • Up to date advice for tourism businesses is available through the Scottish Tourism Association (STA) and VisitScotland. SSDA are also offering support to businesses in Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders.
  • Visit the official UK government website for additional up to date information on safety measures, support for businesses and advice for travellers.