Last night we paid a visit to Brixton Hootananny to see how the pub is coping under the new Tier 2 ‘High Alert’ coronavirus restrictions – and apart from one annoying niggle, we were impressed with how the popular pub and venue was being run.
On entry you’re encouraged to use the free hand sanitiser and then you have to sign in with your contact details and also scan in the barcode for the NHS app (if you have it installed) .
As you can see, there’s plenty of space outdoors and it’s easy to keep socially distanced.
The security did a good job of ensuring that no group exceeded the limit of six people, even if some people did moan about being asked to move.
All ordering has to be done while sat down and although the staff were really friendly, it has to be said that the app was a real dog. It took us no less than three registration attempts to finally log in, and we wasted a good 10 minutes drinking time as a result!
Live music on weekends
The venue, which has received funding from the Arts Council’s Cultural Recovery Fund Grant, has also started putting live music and DJs back on at weekend, although seats are limited and the volume levels are restricted.
It’s great to see live music return.
These are the Tier 2 Covid restrictions that apply to pubs:
- People are prohibited from socialising with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting.
- The rule of six continues to apply for socialising outdoors, for instance in a garden or public space like a park or beach.
- Businesses and venues can continue to operate, but pubs and restaurants must ensure that customers consume food and drink only while seated, and close between 10pm and 5am.
Venue details
Hootananny
95 Effra Rd, Greater, Brixton, London SW2 1DF
Current opening hours
Monday 5–10pm
Tuesday 5–10pm
Wednesday 5–10pm
Thursday 5–10pm
Friday 3–10pm
Saturday 3–10pm
Sunday 3–10pm
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