Two historic countryside pubs in Northumberland are set to be converted into houses after their owners deemed them financially unviable, highlighting a wider trend of pub closures across England.
Proposals to convert the Railway Inn in Fourstones were approved more than a decade after it ceased operating as a pub. Plans have also been submitted to convert the Blue Bell in Mickley, which closed in April 2025. Both cases have sparked sadness and anger in their communities.
Wider trend of pub losses
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) reported that 1,086 pubs were lost in England between January 1 and October 22, with 185 either demolished or converted into alternative uses like shops or housing. The general consensus is that once a pub is lost, it rarely returns.
CAMRA described the situation as a "crisis" and said pubs are being "pushed to the brink" by "unfair and unsustainable tax burdens". The Government has announced a 20% cut to business rates for pubs starting in 2027, but many fear this does not go far enough.
Local impact
Coun Guy Renner-Thompson, who represents the Bamburgh ward on Northumberland County Council, said his area includes tourist hotspots like Beadnell and Seahouses, but even there many pubs are struggling.
He said: "We did some analysis earlier in the year and one pub in my area saw their rateable value go up by 400% in the last review. While any Government relief is welcome, this won't make enough of a difference."
He added: "Once they're gone, you never get them back. Nobody buys a house and turns it into a pub. In some of these villages the pub is the last thing left. The shop and the post office and everything else has already closed down."
Government response
The Government admitted that pubs, social clubs and live music venues that "form the backbone of local high streets" have been replaced by "boarded up windows and for sale signs" for "far too long". The business rate cuts will benefit nearly 32,000 pubs, clubs and live music venues, saving the typical pub an estimated £1,100 in the next financial year.
Northumberland Labour leader Coun Scott Dickinson said the support would help the sector. He said: "They are still struggling, but the Government has already done a package of additional support for cultural venues and small venues such as pubs. Yes, they have had a difficult time. They have been trying to get through Covid and they have had help - but not enough. I'm pleased to see the Government is looking at potential ways to help the sector survive and thrive."
