A major pub chain in the UK is preparing to reopen its venues - but not on May 17.

Hall & Woodhouse has confirmed that all its 52 managed pubs, including  The Wheatsheaf Inn near Salisbury, will reopen indoors from Thursday, May 20 instead.

The New Inn in New Street, which is also owned by the company, will reopen indoors on Moday as it's run independently.

Read more: What you can and can't do at the pub from May 17

Following the lifting of government restrictions, indoor table service will resume in the restaurant and bar areas of Hall & Woodhouse's pubs.

Pub gardens will still be available to provide more options over the summer.

Matt Kearsey, Managing Director of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “We are delighted to be able to fully open our doors and welcome our guests back after lockdown.

“We have taken the time to carry out refresher training for our team and have added some new menu dishes to our traditional favourites. We are really looking forward to being able to offer our guests great, safe hospitality either inside or outside over what promises to be an exciting summer.

“What the past year has taught us is that the country’s love for the pub is as strong as ever, and we are thankful that our houses get to play the part of bringing people safely back together. The support that we have received from our team and local communities during such a turbulent time has been overwhelming and we are so grateful.

“It is great to be back and fully open again to provide a place for our guests to regroup and reconnect after all this time.”

Guests are encouraged to pre-book a table online. Bookings of no more than six people will be available with a 90-minute slot at the table.

H&W’s pubs with accommodation in popular tourist destinations across the country will be available for staycation bookings from Monday.

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