![Closed shops for lockdown: closed sign](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fLZdtJpW5DvDBcjDu3mRz4-415-80.jpg)
It's the news that none of us wanted: England will be going into a second lockdown. That means shops classed as 'non-essential' will be forced to close their doors. Wondering what that means exactly? Read on for a full list of shops that will be closed during lockdown two.
The second lockdown comes into force first thing on Thursday 5 November, and is planned to last at least 28 days. To avoid dealing with the rush that we're predicting over the next couple of days, we'd suggest embracing online shopping wherever possible.
Shops considered essential, which will stay open, include all supermarkets, food shops, garden centres, newsagents and off-licenses (remember, you'll need your face mask to shop). However, the following will be closed during lockdown:
- Clothes shops
- Shoe shops
- Toy shops
- Jewellery stores
- Electronics shops
- Homeware shops
- Bookstores
- Music shops
- Betting shops
- Travel agents
- Tailors
- Tobacco and vape shops
- Car showrooms
- Auction houses
- Car washes
- Card shops
- Phone shops
Other businesses that will be required to close include indoor and outdoor leisure facilities (including gyms, leisure centres, swimming pools, golf courses, driving ranges, dance studios, stables and riding centres, soft play facilities, bowling alleys, climbing walls and climbing centres, archery and shooting ranges and water and theme parks), entertainment venues (cinemas, theatres, concert halls, museums, galleries, casinos, arcades, bingo halls, and zoos). Finally, all personal care facilities will have to close – such as hair, beauty and nail salons, spas, tattoo parlours, massage parlours, body and skin piercing services, non-medical acupuncture and tanning salons.
The following shops are classed as essential, and will definitely be allowed to stay open through lockdown:
- Supermarkets
- Newsagents
- Food shops
- Off-licenses
- Garden centres
We're also expecting pound shops (like Poundland), pet supply stores, opticians, hardware stores and pharmacies to stay open, but are waiting on official confirmation on these. Find out more on Gov.uk.
Remember, while you won't be able to shop in person at any non-essential stores, these business are allowed to remain open for deliveries and click-and-collect services. They're also permitted to stay open until the new rules come into force at 00.01am on Thursday 5 November. Below you'll find some online alternatives to browse.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
For clothes, shoes and homeware:
For electronics:
Supermarkets are all considered essential, so you'll still be able to shop in person, although to avoid crowds and queues, perhaps it's better to book a delivery. Check availability of delivery slots here:
If you're worried about how you're going to do your Christmas shopping with all these restrictions, panic not. Check out our Christmas gift guide for inspiration, and then head to our guides to the best Black Friday deals and Cyber Monday deals for a roundup of the best places to save (and they're all available to order online).
Ruth is a lifestyle journalist specialising in sleep and wellbeing. She has tested more mattresses than her small flat can handle and will talk at length about them to anyone who shows even a passing interest, and has had to implement a one-in-one-out pillow policy for fear of getting smothered in the night. As well as following all the industry trends and advancements in the mattress and bedding world, she regularly speaks to certified experts to delve into the science behind a great night's sleep, and offer you advice to help you get there. She's currently Sleep Editor on Tom's Guide and TechRadar, and prior to that ran the Outdoors and Wellness channels on T3 (now covered by Matt Kollat and Beth Girdler-Maslen respectively).
-
Dune 3 release date revealed by IMAX
The hit sci-fi franchise starring Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet will be back for a third movie
By Sam Cross Published
-
New Google Nest Learning Thermostat leaks – will it finally have touch controls?
The fourth generation of the Google Nest Learning Thermostat has been leaked
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
REM-Fit Tencel Cool mattress protector review: a waterproof protector with temperature control
This Rem-Fit mattress protector guards against spills while shielding you from allergens and wicking moisture away for a comfortable sleep
By Alistair Charlton Last updated
-
I tried the Wim Hof breathing hack and I’ve never slept better
What is Wim Hof breathing and does it help with sleep?
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Loop upgrades its popular earplugs with highest noise reduction levels to date
Loop launches new Quiet 2 Plus earplugs with better noise reduction and comfort than before
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Last updated
-
Momcozy Sunrise Wake-up Light review: a 4-in-1 device that promotes a restful night's sleep
It functions as an alarm clock, sound machine, wake-up light and seven-colour night light
By Lizzie Wilmot Published
-
Oura experts reveal women sleep better than men – but there’s one exception
Why women’s sleep changes during their cycle, and how to sleep better on your period
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Survey finds the majority of Brits are angry from tiredness – here’s how to fix it
‘Tangry’ is the new ‘Hangry’, according to new sleep survey
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Londoners are the worst sleepers in the UK, reveals Oura experts
Oura study reveals Brits have surprisingly good sleep habits but there’s room for improvement
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Lovehoney launches its most discreet and travel-friendly sex toy yet
Lovehoney unveils new vibrator that can discreetly come with you on your next holiday
By Emily Cox Published