Numerous pubs and restaurants across the county are gearing up to open their doors to the public once more.

Although the UK is taking a gradual step back towards normality, a raft of rules must be followed by business owners, staff and the public alike in order for a safe service to be provided.

Here are just 10 of the local bars and restaurants opening on July 4 or later this month.

The Duck, Westbourne

Bournemouth Echo:

On Tuesday, 30 June the bar and grill revealed that in anticipation of July 4, bookings are now being taken with simpleERB via email or phone.

The Duck's doors will be open from 11am until late.

The bar will only be taking bookings of up to six people for two hour slots and ask that all customers abide by social distancing regulations.

Only table service will be offered and bar service will be unavailable.

The regular's discount will not be provided due to the current economic strain on the bar and only a limited menu will be offered.

However, the bar's popular happy hour and food deals will continue as usual.

Sunday roasts, breakfast and live music will be halted but the bar encourages people to keep an eye on their social media pages (including The Duck Westbourne on Facebook) for updates.

NEO Restaurant

Bournemouth Echo:

NEO Restaurant on Exeter Road, Bournemouth is also opening its doors on July 4.

The restaurant and cocktail bar has new terrace layout as well as a new fresh, healthy and vibrant food menu.

Their famous cocktails will be sold at a reduced price too.

All gift cards and Elite Living vouchers are valid for an additional three months.

The restaurant is already fully booked for Saturday night but cocktails can still be sampled in their downstairs 360 lounge.

To book a table, visit https://www.neorestaurant.co.uk or call 0747 2018 175.

Aruba

Bournemouth Echo:

The seafront restaurant will be accepting tables of up to six people from 10am on July 4.

A walk-in service will be operated on a first come, first serve basis so no booking is required.

However bookings will be taken for the evenings from 8pm onwards.

To book, visit: aruba-bournemouth.co.uk

1812 Lounge Bar & Restaurant

Bournemouth Echo:

1812 will officially be opening its doors on Saturday.

The bar and restaurant will be following all government guidelines very closely and will ensure the safety of its customers.

Staff have also ensured there is space for customers to safely social distance while enjoying a cocktail or two.

Details about booking will soon be posted on their Facebook page, 1812 Lounge Bar & Restaurant, Bournemouth.

Bar So

Bournemouth Echo:

This popular summer venue will be opening its terrace and bar on Saturday, July 4.

The announcement on the bar's Facebook page reads: "We really appreciate all of your patience and understanding whilst we navigate this new normal and we can’t wait to welcome you all back."

Updates regarding opening will be posted on the Bar So Facebook page.

Pinocchio Bournemouth

Bournemouth Echo:

On Friday, July 10 this Italian restaurant will be opening.

Due to social distancing, numbers will be limited and there will be considerably less tables available.

The restaurant's business hours may change without prior notice.

It is strongly advised to book in advance, preferably by phone on 01202 291081 or by filling out an online enquiry form, which can be found here: http://www.pinocchiosbournemouth.co.uk/

Darcy's Bar & Kitchen

Bournemouth Echo:

Darcy's Bar & Kitchen will be open from 5pm on Thursday, July 9.

However, if you would rather stay at home to enjoy a meal, you can order online through Darcy's online ordering system.

This can be done via their website: https://www.darcysbar.co.uk/online-ordering

To book a table, call 01202 419319.

The Four Horsemen Pub

Bournemouth Echo:

This Bournemouth pub will be opening on 'Super Saturday' (July 4) but will continue to offer a takeaway service for those who don't yet feel comfortable visiting a pub.

To book a table for up to six people, you can message the pub through its Facebook page, The Four Horsemen Pub.

People are permitted to just turn up, but booking is recommended.

The pub will be following government guidelines and there will be a reduced capacity.

Their post on Facebook states: "Under these guidelines we can only accept up to six people at a table and the six people can come from two households."

You can visit the pub from Monday to Friday, 5pm to 10pm or on Saturday from 12pm to10pm as well as Sunday 12pm-5pm.

PAPRIKA Restaurant & Cafe

Bournemouth Echo:

On July 11, PAPRIKA will be reopening.

Customers are welcome on Saturday's from 12pm to 10pm and from Tuesday till Friday from 2pm until 9pm.

The restaurant is ready to welcome back customers with homemade food and drink, which can also be offered as a takeaway.

To book a table, phone 01202 801862.

Ojo Rojo

Bournemouth Echo:

The Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar is taking bookings for July 4 and beyond.

With government guidelines in place, the restaurant can only accommodate up to six people per booking.

The restaurant will only be offering table service and seating is limited due to social distancing restrictions.

Bookings for up to six people can be made online at: https://www.ojo-rojo.co.uk/reservations/

After opening on July 4, the restaurant's opening hours are as follows: Thursday, 5pm to 11pm, Friday, 5pm to 12.30am, Saturday, Midday to12.30a and Sunday, Midday to 9pm.