SOME parts of the North-East are just an hour and a half away from the Scottish border but residents have been unable to adventure north due to Covid restrictions - that changes today.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced last week that the continued suppression of coronavirus and the success of the vaccine rollout meant some restrictions can be lifted on Monday, April 26.

As of today, travel between Scotland, England and Wakes is permitted and tourist accommodation can welcome back visitors.

This means you can travel to Scotland from England and Wales and stay overnight. However, if visiting friends and family, you cannot go inside their home except to use the toilet.

You can travel with people from your household or support bubble and should have one room or property per household if staying overnight. 

Anyone heading to Scotland will be welcomed by open cafes, restaurants and beer gardens, along with non-essential shops, gyms, swimming pools, libraries and museums.

Hospitality, however, will need to close at 8pm indoors, with alcohol only allowed to be served outside.

People will be able to meet others for a meal or drink, with up to six people from two households allowed to socialise indoors in a public place.

VisitScotland is calling on Scots to support the recovery of the tourism sector by enjoying short breaks, days out and staycations in Scotland.

People in Wales will be able to enjoy a pub pint outdoors from today.

The next key date for England is May 17. From no earlier than then, most social contact rules outside will be lifted – although gatherings of more than 30 will remain illegal.

Indoors, the rule of six or two households will apply although the Government has said it will keep under review whether it is safe to increase this.

Indoor hospitality, entertainment venues such as cinemas and soft play areas, the rest of the accommodation sector, and indoor adult group sports and exercise classes will also reopen.

Limited crowds will also be allowed at sporting events.

The Government confirmed this week that coronavirus passports will be available “as soon as possible”.

All remaining restrictions on social contact could be lifted from June 21, allowing for larger events to go ahead and nightclubs to reopen.