Beautiful UK pub announces sudden closure after 150 years – ‘making no money’ | UK | News

In a shock announcement, the iconic UK pub, which has been pouring beer for nearly 150 years, has announced it will be closing. The Corner Cupboard Inn in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, was built in 1550 and is known for its maze-like rooms and ghostly folklore.

But it has announced it will be draining its last pint and closing its doors for good, revealing it will no longer be able to survive just months after reopening with new owners. He blamed “insurmountable” running costs, rising bills and Rachel Reeves’ budget for the call. The bar posted on Facebook: “It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I have to announce the closure of The Corner Cupboard Inn. This decision was not taken lightly. I want you to know that we are doing everything we can to keep these doors open.”

“We explored every avenue, cut costs wherever possible and worked tirelessly to make this business viable. Despite our best efforts, the financial realities we faced proved insurmountable.

“The truth is clear: we are not making any money. Our running costs have increased significantly and the last Government Budget has placed additional burdens on hospitality businesses that we cannot handle.”

The business owner also cited increases in employers’ National Insurance contributions, rising energy costs and ongoing pressures on small businesses, saying these were “creating an environment where survival is no longer possible”.

They warned that Britain was “witnessing the end of an era” for traditional local pubs.

Locals and councilors have shared their tribute to the “much-loved” community pub. Food service has already been stopped, and drinks continue to be sold until all remaining stocks are exhausted.

The announcement comes just a day before the Chancellor announced that pubs and live music venues in England will receive a 15% discount on their business rates bills from April. The announcement follows significant backlash against the November 2025 Budget, which has left many venues facing huge increases in business rates due to revaluations and the removal of COVID relief.

After the 15 percent discount, prices will be frozen in real terms for another two years. The support package is expected to save the average pub an additional £1,650 between 2026-2027.