As pubs and restaurants are now allowed to reopen inside we are taking a look at eateries in Maldon, Burnham and the surrounding area where diners have a good view of the scenery.

Pubs and restaurants have been allowed to serve customers at outdoor tables from April 12.

As of last month, in a further easing of lockdown, customers can eat and drink inside.

Many restaurants have been busy taking bookings for weeks.

The reviews site TripAdvisor has drawn up a list of the best Maldon restaurants with a view:

  1. The Maldon Smokehouse 
  2. The Queens Head
  3. The Lock tearoom
  4. Harbour View Bistro and Bar
  5. The Loft, Tollesbury 
  6. Osea View Cafe and Bar
  7. The Bell, Purleigh 
  8. The Barge Tearooms
  9. The Jolly Sailor, Heybridge 
  10. Paper Lock Mill Tearooms 

One reviewer of The Maldon Smokehouse said: "We stumbled across the Maldon Smokehouse. We had a seafood platter and it was delicious. The service was fantastic."

And the list of the best Burnham restaurants with a view according to TripAdvisor:

  1. Parlour Cafe 
  2. Swallowtail Restaurant and Bar
  3. Blackwater Bistro, Mayland
  4. The Anchor Hotel & Restaurant

A reviewer of the Parlour Cafe said: "This is a lovely barn conversation cafe. Welcoming staff. Cakes were delicious and the best coffee ever. They had a separate dog friendly room. A garden area."