BARS and pubs will be welcoming guests indoors from Monday after months of Covid restrictions.

Pubs officially reopened on April 12, but they could only open outdoors, with some venues not having enough room outside to facilitate customers.

However, from Monday, May 17, pubs and restaurants will finally be allowed to welcome back customers under their roofs.

Ahead of the big day, here are the 10 top-rated bars and pubs in the Colchester area on TripAdvisor that are well worth a visit.

1. Victoria Inn, in Colchester

2. The Fox Inn, Mersea Island

3. The New Inn, Colchester

4. The Silk Road Lounge and Cocktail bar, Colchester

5. The Anchor Inn, Stratford St Mary

6. Walkabout, Colchester

7. After Office Hours Bar, Colchester

8. The Foresters Arms, Colchester

9. Trotters Bar, Colchester

10. The Lion, in Ardleigh

One drinker, who visited Victoria Inn, said: "Before Covid I always used to go here with my old work colleagues. A lovely beer garden, and a brilliant selection of ales. Friendly staff as well."

A customer who went to The Silk Road Lounge and Cocktail Bar this month said: "Mario deserves a pay rise he is the most magnificent waiter and provides a lot of tap water.

"He is very helpful friendly and has positive outlook after lockdown which is refreshing."

What is your favourite bar or pub in the area? Let us know in the comments below.