From May 17, pubs and other hospitality venues will be able to open their indoor areas to the public.

Many people will be excited to finally get back inside a pub, away from the chilly British weather.

Plenty of pubs have been welcoming back customers in their outdoor spaces following the lockdown easing on April 12, although several stayed closed and will reopen after lockdown eases further on Monday.

So, here are five pubs/bars that will be reopening over the coming week as well as what reviewers have said about them in the past:

Nascot Arms, Stamford Road, Watford

The Nascot Arms will be welcoming punters back on May 17.

It is a family run pub that serves guest ales and is also known for its Thai cuisine.

One reviewer said: “Excellent pub with awesome Thai restaurant inside.

“Food was very good and extremely reasonably priced. We had the set menu. Would definitely recommend. Great place, go and find it if in Watford.”

Another said: “Great community pub and most excellent Thai restaurant and takeaway. Wish we lived closer.”

Southern Cross, Langley Road, Watford

The Southern Cross describes itself as a pub that has “something for everyone”, with it being “a great place to meet with friends, family and fellow sports fans to enjoy a great range of food and drink”.

It will be reopening its doors from May 17.

One reviewer said: “This pub is very beautiful! The place is very clean and the food is amazing! The staff is very professional.”

Another added: “The place is incredible as well as its food, the weight is nice and very friendly at all times.”

The King Stag, Bourenhall Road, Bushey

A dog friendly Gastro Pub in the heart of Bushey Village, The King Stag aims “to be the hub of the community where people can come for a pint, meal or coffee”.

People will find a range of eight individually sourced draught ales behind the bar and fresh food cooked on site from local produce coming out of the kitchen.

It will be reopening its doors on May 19.

One reviewer said: "This is such a beautiful pub! Love coming here for lunch with family when we’re all together, the food tastes great and the staff are very helpful!"

Another added: "Looking for a dog friendly pub and came across the King Stag. Can’t believe we’ve never been here before! The food was amazing - best short rib ever and staff so friendly. They even have a doggy menu! Will definitely be back."

Battle Axes, Butterly Lane, Elstree

The Battle Axes pub is a country-style pub with “friendly staff, beautifully decorated interiors, seriously good pub food and expertly chosen drinks ranges”.

It will be reopening its doors on May 17.

One reviewer said: “The pub has amazing food, great service and really good atmosphere. I’m vegan and they have a wonder menu just for Vegans! They cater for every dietary requirement without any problems.”

Another said: “We have been visiting the Battle axes for a good few years and have never had a poor meal. The team have always been polite efficient, and friendly.”

Bodega Bar, The Parade, Watford

Located in Watford town centre, Bodega Bar serves a range of drinks and food whilst live music events are also held.

It will be reopening its doors on May 19.

One reviewer said: “I was so impressed with this place, I honestly thought it would be much the same as the other pubs/bars in Watford but it wasn’t. Lovely relaxing atmosphere, great set up inside, comfy chairs, attentive staff, outside seating area.”

Another said: “Service was spot on, great ambience, really attentive friendly and knowledgeable staff - I would absolutely recommend this hidden gem!”

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