Lockdown 3.0 has been a challenge for us all but with the government's roadmap now giving us a timeframe for an exit north Herts pubs are gearing up to reopen.

Following the government's four step plan to end lockdown the highly-acclaimed Fox at Willian is getting ready to pull pints for thirsty punters very soon.

With Prime Minister Boris Johnson promising the 'end really is in sight' when speaking in the House of Commons on Monday afternoon, pub beer gardens up and down the land, including those in Hitchin and surrounding areas, are set to reopening on April 12.

The Fox shared their verdict on their official Instagram feed, saying: "The sun is shining today and things are definitely looking brighter - so we wanted to share with you some exciting news.

"We've been working extremely hard to give you all a safe and enjoyable environment to spend time with friends and family

"Our new and improved beer garden is currently in progress and we are so excited to announce that this will be ready for April 12.

'We know you are all looking forward to getting out in a beer garden enjoying an ice cold beer, a cheeky Pimms or one of our classic Fox meals."

The Fox, owned by the respected family run Anglia Country Inns, added that they are working on the outside seating layout and will keep customers updated when bookings will be up and running for outside.

The acclaimed pub and restaurant is featured in the Michelin guide in the beautiful village of Willian near to Hitchin.

They said it: "Sits in the heart of the village and is a pleasingly unpretentious place.

"Monthly menus present an appealing range of modern British dishes which keep natural flavours to the fore and arrive neatly presented.

"Service is sweet and friendly, and comfy, contemporary country bedrooms await."

Here's the best beer gardens in and around Hitchin to savour after April 12