TWO of Colchester's most popular bars have announced they will be reopening for outdoor guests and takeaway drinks from April 12.

Three Wise Monkeys, in High Street, and Twisters Bar, in North Hill, are opening their outdoor spaces next month following the lifting of lockdown measures.

Guests will be able to drink and dine al fresco in front of the craft tap and smokehouse at Three Wise Monkeys.

Food and drink will be available to order via Deliveroo or click and collect during the opening hours too.

Twisters' famous beer garden will also be open for tables of two to six people from this date, with all of its wide selection of drinks on offer.

Tables are available to book for both venues now via The Monkey App or websites.

Pasini Leisure runs both bars, along with V Bar in Colchester and Three Wise Monkeys in Ipswich.

Director Paul Tonkinson said: “We’re in the business of helping people to have great experiences and to be able to provide that again after a prolonged period of closure is incredibly exciting.

"The challenges faced by our industry this year have been beyond any measure experienced in our business lifespan and although there’s still a way to go, we’re feeling positive at the prospect of what April 12 and subsequent roadmap dates will bring.

"We look forward to welcoming people back for reunion and celebration.”

Indoor spaces at both, as well as the other venues, should reopen on May 17, subject to any changes to Government guidelines.

These are the opening times for both cars as they reopen:

Three Wise Monkeys Colchester

Three Wise Monkeys

Three Wise Monkeys

Outdoor tables: 11am - 11pm every day

Food served: 11am - 9.30pm every day (including takeaway via Click & Collect or Deliveroo)

Twisters Bar

Twisters Bar is on North Hill in Colchester

Twisters Bar is on North Hill in Colchester

Monday - Thursday: 5pm - 11pm

Friday 3pm - 11pm

Saturday & Sunday: 12pm - 11pm

Including Click & Collect or walk up drinks for takeaway

The firm says all venues are committed to providing a service that is as safe as possible for all its customers and staff, going above and beyond the current Government guidelines.

The team, from front of house to kitchen wear masks, tables have been reduced and are socially distanced and wiped down with antibacterial between every visit.

The dedicated Monkey App allows guests to order directly to the table, collecting points with each purchase to redeem on future pints and food.

Visit threewisemonkeyscolchester.com.