Government updates UK travel advice after thousands head to Peak District beauty spots

The updated advice says that travel to second homes and camping trips should not take place at a time when people need to self-isolate in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The advice now reads: “This guidance is for people planning to visit second homes or holiday premises during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Essential travel does not include visits to second homes, camp sites, caravan parks or similar, whether for isolation purposes or holidays.

“People should remain in their primary residence. Not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk.”

It comes following numerous reports of national parks and other popular tourist spots across the UK being packed with visitors at the weekend (March 20-22).

The Peak District National Park has also pleaded for the public to stop flouting social distancing advice.

A statement said: “It is important that we all consider our social responsibilities to help tackle this outbreak, and as government advice states, travel should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

“This is no more important than in the Peak District, which is a living and working landscape and community for many thousands of people.”

Boris Johnson is under increasing pressure to impose a lockdown like the ones in France and Italy to prevent people from ignoring government advice about coronavirus.