A prominent UK leisure chain, known for its cricket-themed entertainment venues and high-profile backing from England cricket captain Ben Stokes, has collapsed into administration. The company, Sixes, which operates 16 sites across England, confirmed the move on Friday, 19 December 2025.
Challenging Trading Conditions Force Closure
The decision to appoint administrators follows a period of what the company described as "challenging" recent trading. This has led to the immediate closure of all its venues, which combined dining, social cricket, and bar facilities under one roof. The announcement marks a significant blow to the UK's competitive socialising sector and the high street.
Stakes High for Stokes-Backed Venture
The chain's profile was significantly raised by the involvement of England cricket captain Ben Stokes, who was a public backer of the brand. His endorsement brought considerable attention to Sixes, which aimed to capitalise on the growing market for experiential leisure. The collapse highlights the ongoing pressures facing the hospitality and retail sectors, even for ventures with notable celebrity investment.
With 16 locations across England, the administration will impact numerous jobs and leave a noticeable gap in the leisure offerings of towns and cities where its venues were based. The appointed administrators are now expected to seek buyers for the business and its assets, though the future of the Sixes brand remains uncertain.
Broader Implications for the High Street
This collapse adds to a growing list of high-profile high street and leisure casualties. It underscores the fragile economic environment for brick-and-mortar entertainment businesses facing rising costs and shifting consumer habits. The fate of Sixes will be closely watched as a barometer for similar experiential leisure concepts in the UK market.
