DESPITE concerns in some parts of the country about the prevalence of the 'Indian variant' of coronavirus, the next stage of the government's roadmap out of lockdown is due to arrive on Monday (May 17).

After the utterly miserable weather over the last couple of weeks, which has caused havoc to those wanting to sit outside to eat and drink, the doors to the warmer climes of the great indoors are almost here.

Not all of the town's pubs and restaurants have al fresco dining and drinking options, while others have been carrying out refurbishments and repairs following January's floods.

There are also those businesses that have been able to re-open, but at a very much reduced capacity, with the lifting of restrictions being most welcome.

Here are ten places that will be delighted to finally welcome back customers, for the first time since Christmas.

1. The Swinging Witch, Crown Street

After a full refurbishment, it's all systems go at the witch.

The January floods causing much devastation but the new beer garden is looking really stylish and even features new all-weather pods for that all too predictable wet weather.

Inside is looking fresh too and not only that, there is a new food and drinks menu to get stuck into.

Booking is advised and these can be made via the pub's Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TheSwingingWitch

2. The Chiming Times, Witton Street

Despite offering a service to his loyal customers, on the limited number of street-side tables, while occasional wearing full scuba gear, landlord Adam Prestige will be pleased to welcome back customers inside his award winning pub.

The traditional pub offers a wide range of both keg and cask ales and is one of the town's go-to places for live football.

Speaking to the Guardian in February, Adam said: "I am excited about entering the journey on the road to recovery

"I will certainly be here on May 17 to welcome back all our customers as I really have missed them very much.

"This will ensure we can have a Summer to remember and continue to get back to normality and get back to providing social hubs and proudly serving our communities again."

3. The Salthouse NW, Hayhurst Quay

The family run craft ale and gin bar located between Waitrose and Bombay Quay, is delighted to be back open after months of closure.

No bookings are required, with tables available on a first come first served basis.

In a Facebook post, they said: "We have missed you all tremendously and we cannot wait to see all of our regulars and a whole bunch of new faces."

The bar will be open Thursday (from 5pm), and Friday and Saturday (from 3pm).

4. The Bird and Hat, Bull Ring

Despite being opened for those brave souls drinking outside since April 12, the doors to the town's very own specialised rum and cocktail bar will be open again next week.

Throughout lockdown, they have been keeping their customers very merry with take away cocktails in jars but it will be a great relief to finally be able to welcome back through their doors.

5. The Salty Dog, High Street

Despite offering a limited service in its small outdoor space, the dog is all about what happens inside, with possibly the finest beer selection in town.

Live music and events are another of its strong selling points and I'm sure many will be excited to be back enjoying a drink inside from Monday.

Keep an eye on their socials for more information https://www.facebook.com/saltydogpub

6. The Clock Tower, Chester Way

The Clock Tower is a family-friendly modern pub just outside the centre of Northwich.

There is a great choice of food including a fresh carvery and full casual dining menu.

7. The Riverside Inn, Acton Bridge

This popular pub on the banks for the River Weaver, was under more than a metre of water after it burst its banks during the January floods.

However, brewery owner Marston's having invested £850,000 in completely refurbishing the pub.

The good news doesn't end there, with more than 20 new jobs being created.

It's all systems go for a 12noon launch on Monday.

8. The Hart of Hartford, Hartford

Another one of those bars and eateries that has been opened at a reduced capacity for outdoor dining and drinking.

Open Monday to Saturday 8:30am to 11pm and Sunday 9am to 9pm.

There will be a reduced capacity inside for the time being with online bookings advised.

Head over to their Facebook page for more information https://www.facebook.com/TheHartOfHartford.

9. Temple Cafe Bar, Witton Street

Been a revelation since it opened last year and has been welcoming back customers since April 12, with street side table service in keeping with the continental vibe.

Accessible and perfectly placed for anyone living in or visiting Northwich, with cheap or even free local parking.

Close to all major shops, making it the perfect place to have a well-earned break.

10. The Lodge, Winnington Lane

With an amazing new beer garden, The Lodge has been welcoming back customers for several weeks now.

However, the doors to welcome you back inside will be swung open on Monday.

Sharing a post on Facebook, they said: "Leave those brollies and rain macs at home and book to join us indoors from Monday to celebrate being together again at last."