Trouble is brewing for our pubs under strain, Reeves told

RACHEL Reeves’ November Budget is a “make or break” moment for Britain’s pubs as bars are forced out of business, experts warned.

- By David Williamson Chief Political Commentator

Thirty-six pubs featured in the Campaign for Real Ale’s Good Beer Guide last year have now shut as the sector battles what the group calls a “ridiculous” tax burden.

It says the number closing each year has spiralled from 671 in 2022 to 829 in 2023 and 948 in 2024 — and 811 have already gone this year.

Ridiculous

Top pubs out of business include Birmingham's Post Office Vaults, the Hole in the Wall in Torquay and Liverpool's The Caledonia.

Camra says 149 breweries have also closed, with only 71 new ones emerging.