RESTAURANTS, bars and cafes are preparing to serve customers indoors from this week – and many are showing off spaces that have been revamped during lockdown.

Coronavirus restrictions will ease from Monday across England, meaning pints and food will be served indoors again across St Helens for the first time in more than four months.

Many venues will retain newly created outdoor spaces so that customers can continue to sit in the fresh air but there will now be the option of dining or drinking inside again.

Some venues without beer gardens or patios have been shut in the duration of the latest lockdown but will be back open this week.

It follows a hugely testing period during the pandemic in which many hospitality staff have been on furlough and businesses have been supported through grants.

What are the rules for pubs and restaurants in England from May 17?

  • Pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants will be allowed to serve customers indoors
  • Groups of up to six – or two households of any size – will be allowed inside
  • Groups seated outside may have up to 30 people
  • Landlords will be expected to make sure customers over 16 check in with NHS track and trace, or provide contact details
  • People will still need to order, eat and drink while seated, where alcohol is served
  • When not seated – for example being shown to a table, or going to the toilet – customers must wear face coverings
  • Social distancing between groups will be encouraged
  • Capacity restricted to what is possible with social distancing and table service

The government hopes to lift all restrictions from June 21 depending on how the covid rate and hospital admissions develop.

Many venues have turned to social media to tease their new look premises or simply let customers know they'll be back open this week.

In a statement, the Ice Bar (pictued below) in St Helens, wrote: "After what seems like a eternity it’s a great feeling to finally get back to a little normality as we are back open on Monday 17th can’t wait to see all customers old and new and hope everyone likes the improvements we’ve made to the bar."

St Helens Star:

The Gerard Arms, meanwhile, posted a video reminding customers "what the inside of a pub looks like".

Spanish Tapas Resaurant La Casa Vieja, in St Helens' George Street Quarter, wrote: "We are opening Thursday 20th May! "We have a new balcony terrace for out door seating now available. New tables and chairs in the courtyard also with parasol coverings.

"All brand new solid oak tables inside and a brand new bar!

St Helens Star:

A new balcony terrace at La Casa Vieja

"We have imported New Spanish Beers and Spanish fruit Sidres including strawberry, pear and berry's and have some fabulous cocktails available

"Menu is the same as always cooked from fresh by Mano with added weekly specials.

"All bookings made will be asked for address and contact information for track and trace."

Here's what some of the venues have been saying...