By Maria Caires
Pubs are part of the United Kingdom’s culture, they are ever present in many people’s lives. A pub is a place that fills many citizens with joy, however, these establishments are closing down at an alarming rate.
In 2025, an estimated 366 pubs were demolished or converted for other uses across the UK, according to the Guardian. There are roughly 41,691 pubs and bars remaining in the UK – but many are still struggling.
UK pubs are closing at a rate of one per day due to a combination of soaring operating costs, for example energy, wages and taxes. High inflation is also a concerning factor which has caused many pubs to be financially unsustainable.
Approximately 2,000 pubs have vanished in the last five years, the Morning Advertiser has reported, and there are no signs of the trend stopping.
The Horatia Pub on Holloway Road – still standing! Image by Maria Caires
Crucial to tourism
The traditional British pub is also crucial to tourism, and thus the British economy. Many tourists are regularly coming over to explore England, and many will stop and try local pubs for some of the culture. Beer and pubs contribute £34.3 billion to the economy, according to a UK parliament report, and 1 billion pints of beer to over 100 different countries annually, therefore not only helping the public but also the government.
Campaigns have started to appear to protect many other pubs from closing. One is on instagram titled ‘SaveBritishPubs’, their goal is to raise awareness to pubs closing and what they consider “something precious’ disappearing”. The profile expresses that pubs are not only venues but “the heart of our communities”.
Sam, a 60-year-old retired pensioner, says: “I’m not a pub goer normally, but it’s good to have a place to socialise outside of work.” He adds that “social media has been so popular due to mobile phones, people tend to be in a corner and socialise as much”.
The group “Campaign for Pubs” is also working towards supporting local pubs and making sure that their doors remain open for the public as it provides “a focal point” for community and festivals. The group also says that “pubs raise millions of pounds for charities”.
Image by: Dallas Burston Polo Club
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