EXCITEMENT is building ahead of next Monday and the long, overdue return of the hospitality sector, so it's time to consider where to go for that first al fresco drink or bite to eat.
It's been an incredibly difficult 12 months for everyone, but especially those running their own businesses, with the country experiencing three national lockdowns.
When Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced his road map out of lockdown back in February, the one date that stood out for most was April 12, with hair dressers, salons and shops also re-opening.
For the hospitality sector, it means restaurants and pubs can trade again, but they can only do so for outdoor service, with the rule of six making a return.
The hugely unpopular 10pm curfew and the requirement to have a substantial meal with any alcoholic drink have now also been dropped.
Here are some of the pubs, bars and restaurants in and around Winsford and Middlewich you might want to support from next Monday.
1. The Hayhurst Arms, Bostock Green
The Hayhurst Arms is a classic village pub which sits in the heart of Bostock, right beside the village green. It is a friendly, close-knit community and the pub forms a wonderful social hub where neighbours can meet for a chat and a pint, locals can bring friends and family for a bite to eat, and where visitors will find a warm welcome. When the sun shines, the pub is flooded with light, and the spacious terrace and gardens, which overlook the village green, are the perfect place for a spot of al fresco dining. You can book tables online between April 12 and May 17 or alternatively, but the team are also keeping some tables aside should you just want to pop down and enjoy a drink or a bite to eat without a booking.
Hayhurst Arms in Bostock Green.
2. The Kings Lock, Booth Lane, Middlewich
This brilliant canalside pub offers great food and local beer and is renowned for its live music. Work has begun on the beer and gin garden and anticipation is building about the re-opening on April 12. Opening hours are subject to change but the beer garden will be ready for orders from 5pm until the close. It will then close until Friday with timings to reviewed on a weekly basis and adjusted to meet demand.
The Kings Lock in Middlewich.
3. Bar No. 4, Delamere Street, Winsford
A rustic, tasteful bar where you can enjoy great company, craft ales and fine wines/spirits. The team are looking forward to welcoming people back who are willing to brave the elements on April 12. They will also be served coffee and tea, just in case the weather decides it doesn't want to play ball.
Bar No.4 in Winsford.
4. The Big Lock Pub, Webb Lane, Middlewich
The Big Lock is a traditional Pub on this Trent & Mersey Canal next to Lock 75. They offer traditional pub favourites, afternoon tea and a large selection of Gins and Cask ale. There will be a new menu to greet diners on April 12 and not only that but a brand new beer garden too.
The Big Lock in Middlewich.
5. The White Bear, Wheelock Street, Middlewich
The white Bear was built around 1625 and was one of the main coaching Inns for the salt town of Middlewich. The pub takes its name from the popular pastime of bear baiting in the area and the last bear associated with the pub was called Nell. The pub is renowned for its real ales and the beer garden is ready to welcome customers from April 12. Bookings are welcome, probably more so if weather is warm as beer garden space is limited. Opening times Mon / Tues 4pm-9pm (food served until 8pm) Weds / Thursday 12pm-10pm (food served until 8pm) Fri / Sat 12noon-11pm (food served until 8pm) and Sunday 12noon-9pm (food served until 7pm).
The beer garden at the White Bear in Middlewich.
6. The Gate Inn, Delamere Street, Winsford
Plans are well underway to get the pub ready for opening, with Friday, April 16 pencilled in as the big day. This traditional local pub lies at the heart of the community and offers up fine ales and freshly made food and when restrictions allow, great live entertainment.
The Gate in Winsford.
7. The Old Star, Darnhall, Winsford
The pub is run by local publican Ernie Welch, and it his belief that the Old Star should be a comfortable, relaxing environment where friends and families can socalise and enjoy quality drinks, snacks and good company. The beer garden will be open from April 12 on a first come first served basis.
The beer garden at the Old Star in Winsford has been given a lick of paint ahead of re-opening.
8. The Plough Inn, Beauty Bank, Whitegate
Located down a quiet country lane that is popular with walkers and steeped in history, The Plough Inn offers traditional hand pulled Robinsons real ales, fine wines and quality home cooked food, all served in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.The beer garden has been designed using unusual bedding plants. David Hughes has ran the pub for over 15 years and has been involved in the hospitality industry since birth. Opening hours will be Monday to Wednesday 5pm - 7pm for drinks only. Thursday to Sunday, they will be open 1pm to 9pm (with food available up to 8pm).
The Plough Inn, Whitegate.
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