Lockdown easing: Ten things we can't wait to do in Brighton and Hove

The country has been in national lockdown since January with city residents under a strict stay at home message.

The Prime Minister’s roadmap lays out when we can expect things to return, including the return of beer gardens, pubs and even nightclubs.

1) Having a picnic at Stanmer Park

Autumn light in Stanmer Park pictured by Claire Pulman. For a chance to have your photo featured here, join The Argus Camera Club at www.facebook.com/groups/cameraclubargus

From March 8, one person will be able to meet someone from another household to socialise, not just for exercise.

This means we will be able to breakout the picnic basket and enjoy a long chat with someone in person for the first time this year.

With its beautiful woodland walks and extensive open lands, Stanmer Park is perfect for a family picnic.

2) Holding the hand of a loved one in a care home

Care home residents will be able to have visits with hand-holding soon

Also from March 8, care home residents will be allowed one named visitor.

That visitor will be able to hold hands, which for many will be the first time in a while that physical contact has been allowed with their loved one.

Studies show that holding hands soothes anxiety, reduces stress and diminishes pain – which is just what is needed after a turbulent year.

3) BBQs in the garden with friends

Meat free bbq

From March 29, up to six different people can meet up in private garden to enjoy each other’s company.

This means it will be possible to dust off the BBQ for some spring time sausages, so get your aprons at the ready.

Yes, we might be being a little optimistic with the weather, so it might be worth bringing a rain coat too.

4) A kickabout at Hove Park

Hove Park is the perfect place for a Springtime kickabout

This date will also see the return of organised outdoor sports for children and adults.

Previously, only top-tier athletes could play sport in large groups. But on March 29, people participating in grassroots football will also be able to play.

Hove Park is home to numerous teams including Hove Park Wednesday, Hove Park Rangers and Hove Park Colts.

5) Getting a haircut

File photo showing a person having a haircut. Picture: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Unless you live with a hairdresser, the chances are you have not had a decent haircut in months.

A Google search of “lockdown haircut” will show you some of the worst blunders people have made while having a go with the scissors themselves.

That is why we can’t wait for the hairdressers to reopen, which looks set for April 12.

6) Renting a book from Jubilee Library

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Library buildings have been shut under the ongoing national lockdown.

But, with the government aiming to reopen their doors from April 12, it is finally time to dig out the library card and get lost in a world of wonderful stories.

Research shows that libraries make for healthier communities, which will be crucial for coming out of the pandemic.

7) Having a pint without a substantial meal

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Drinkers enjoy a pint in a pub on March 11, 2011 in London, England. (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images).

Publicans may find themselves ditching tonnes of Scotch eggs as pubs look set for a comeback – without the need for customers to buy a substantial meal.

The government looks set to do away with the rule, which led to much confusion, as beer gardens return on April 12, but people will have to be seated when ordering and eating or drinking.

Although we are fans of macaroni and cheese, we are excited at the prospect of having a beer without a dish on the table.

8) Watching a show at the Theatre Royal

Brighton Theatre Royal

On May 17, the government plans to open indoor hospitality including pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres.

Theatre Royal Brighton in New Road has entertained audiences for over 212 years and will hopefully be welcoming visitors once again from the date.

A quick glace on the venue’s website will reveal a host of shows which look set to go ahead – we just hope there’s enough tickets to go around.

9) Going back to The Amex

Brighton fans applaud then teams coming out during the Premier League match at the AMEX Stadium, Brighton. PA Photo. Picture date: Sunday December 20, 2020. See PA story SOCCER Brighton. Photo credit should read: Glyn Kirk/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: EDITORIAL

Grab your match-day scarves as May 17 could also see up to 1,000 people head back to The Amex.

Fans should expect an abundance of hand sanitiser and social distancing rules in place, but it will be great to be back in the stadium to see the Albion avoid relegation (hopefully).

10) Attending Brighton Pride

Brighton Pride 2020

With the government hoping to remove all legal limits on social contact on June 21, Brighton Pride looks set for a possible return.

Last year’s digital festival provided a fantastic online alternative to the annual celebrations, but nothing can compare with the 450,000-strong parade the city is used to seeing on an August weekend.

With Pride 2021 set for just over 23 weeks away, should the government’s roadmap go to plan, nothing should be stopping its comeback.