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Village Pub Saved by Local Cricket Team Reopens After Community Rescue

By
Daniel Price
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The Old Ox Inn in Symondsbury has reopened after being brought back to life by members of a local cricket club determined to save their much-loved village pub.

A historic Dorset pub that had faced an uncertain future has been given a remarkable new lease of life thanks to the passion and determination of local cricket enthusiasts.

The Old Ox Inn, nestled in the picturesque village of Symondsbury near Bridport, has officially reopened after being rescued by members of Symondsbury Cricket Club.

The reopening is being celebrated as a major victory for the community, ensuring that the village retains one of its most important social hubs.

A Pub at the Heart of Village Life

For generations, The Old Ox Inn has been far more than just a place to enjoy a pint.

Like many traditional village pubs across Britain, it serves as a meeting place where neighbours gather, friendships are forged and community events take place.

When the pub’s future came into doubt, members of the local cricket club stepped forward to secure its survival.

Their mission was simple: keep the heart of the village beating.

From Cricket Pavilion to Pub Revival

The rescue effort demonstrates how deeply pubs remain woven into the fabric of rural life.

Cricket clubs and pubs have long shared a close relationship, both acting as cornerstones of village communities.

By taking on the challenge of reopening The Old Ox Inn, the team has ensured that locals and visitors alike can continue to enjoy food, drink and conversation in one of Dorset’s most charming settings.

What Visitors Can Expect

Set beneath the rolling hills of West Dorset and close to the iconic Colmer’s Hill, The Old Ox Inn is perfectly placed for walkers, tourists and local residents.

Visitors can expect:

  • Traditional pub food
  • Real ales and local drinks
  • Warm village hospitality
  • A cosy countryside atmosphere
  • Easy access to some of Dorset’s finest walking routes

Its reopening is expected to attract both loyal regulars and newcomers exploring the Jurassic Coast and surrounding countryside.

A Victory for Community Spirit

The story of The Old Ox Inn is a powerful reminder that when communities unite, cherished pubs can be saved.

Across the UK, many local people are stepping in to protect the pubs that define their towns and villages.

In Symondsbury, the local cricket club has shown exactly what can be achieved when passion, teamwork and community pride come together.

Why This Matters

Every pub closure represents the potential loss of a meeting place, a landmark and a piece of local identity.

The reopening of The Old Ox Inn proves that Britain’s pub culture is still very much alive — and that communities are willing to fight for the places they love.

For the people of Symondsbury, this is more than a business reopening.

It is the return of the village’s beating heart.

Pub Where Wild Ponies and Donkeys Wander Past the Beer Garden Named One of the New Forest’s Must-Visit Gems

By
Daniel Price
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Tucked deep in the heart of the New Forest, this stunning country pub offers roaring fires, giant Sunday roasts, free-roaming ponies and one of the most memorable pub settings in Britain.

There are pubs, and then there are pubs that make you stop in your tracks.

The Fighting Cocks is one of those rare places where the New Forest feels as though it begins right outside the front door.

Located in the picturesque village of Godshill near Fordingbridge, this beloved country inn is surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the New Forest National Park, with wild ponies, donkeys and cattle regularly wandering past the pub and even through the car park.

A Pub Straight Out of a Storybook

The moment you arrive, it feels like stepping into a postcard.

With its cosy bar areas, crackling fires, large beer garden overlooking the forest and welcoming atmosphere, The Fighting Cocks captures everything people love about traditional British pubs.

Inside, guests will find comfortable snug areas, a well-stocked bar with real ales, lagers, ciders and wines, and a menu packed with freshly prepared dishes and generous portions.

Food That Keeps People Coming Back

The pub has built a strong reputation for hearty homemade food, including:

  • Traditional Sunday roasts
  • Homemade pies
  • Fresh fish and chips
  • Giant Yorkshire puddings
  • Sticky toffee desserts
  • Daily chef’s specials

Recent reviews praise the quality of the food, huge portions and friendly service, with many visitors saying it has become a must-visit stop whenever they are in the New Forest.

Stay the Night in the New Forest

The Fighting Cocks is more than just a pub. It also offers comfortable guest accommodation, making it an ideal base for walkers, cyclists and holidaymakers exploring the surrounding countryside.

Guests booking directly through the pub’s website can often secure discounted rates and avoid booking fees.

Perfect for Walkers, Dog Owners and Families

One of the biggest attractions is the location itself.

The pub sits close to some of the New Forest’s best walking routes, and dogs are warmly welcomed in both the bar and restaurant. Families, couples and holidaymakers staying nearby at popular destinations such as Sandy Balls Holiday Village regularly make The Fighting Cocks part of their visit.

Why This Pub Captures the Magic of the New Forest

Few pubs in Britain can offer the experience of enjoying a pint while watching wild ponies grazing just metres away.

Whether you are stopping for breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday roast or an overnight stay, The Fighting Cocks delivers the kind of authentic countryside pub experience that people travel hundreds of miles to find.

For many visitors, it is not just a place to eat and drink. It is one of the most memorable pub experiences in the whole of the New Forest.

Seaside Pub Hires New Staff After Menu Launch Sparks Surge in Customers

By
Daniel Price
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The Grosvenor in Felixstowe says trade has boomed since unveiling its new food menu, prompting the pub to recruit extra team members to keep up with demand.

The Grosvenor has taken on additional staff after a highly successful new menu launch brought a sharp increase in customers and glowing feedback from diners.

The popular seaside pub, operated by Greene King, introduced its revamped menu in April and says the response from locals and visitors has exceeded expectations.

Busy Weekends and Growing Trade

Daniel Grover, General Manager of The Grosvenor, said the venue has experienced a significant uplift in business since the new dishes were introduced.

“We’ve been super busy and we’re getting great feedback since launching the new menu.

The team definitely have their favourites too.

We’re seeing great traffic throughout the week and at weekends.

We’ve also had a few new team members join us to help with the pressures during peak shifts, and some of the new starters have extensive experience across hospitality.”

The recruitment of new staff highlights how a well-executed menu refresh can directly boost footfall and create employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.

What’s on the New Menu?

The updated menu features a range of hearty pub favourites and contemporary dishes designed to appeal to a broad range of tastes.

New additions include:

  • Buffalo Chicken Burger
  • Hot Honey BBQ Pulled Pork Beef Burger
  • Cumberland Sausage and Mash
  • Greek-Style Flatbread
  • Lunch Ciabattas with Cod Goujons

Dessert lovers can also enjoy two comforting classics:

  • Sticky Toffee Pudding
  • Apple Crumble

The cod goujon ciabatta offers a nod to Britain’s traditional fish and chips, giving customers a lighter lunchtime option with familiar flavours.

More Than Just Food

The Grosvenor is also strengthening its role as a community hub by introducing a programme of monthly events.

Regular activities now include:

  • Pub Quiz Nights
  • Locky’s Band Jam
  • Open Mic Nights
  • Special Community Events

These additions are helping to attract customers beyond meal times and create a lively atmosphere throughout the month.

Pubs Creating Jobs in Coastal Communities

The Grosvenor’s success is another positive example of how pubs continue to play an important role in local economies.

By investing in menus, events, and customer experience, venues can increase trade, create new jobs, and reinforce their position as essential gathering places for the community.

For Felixstowe residents and visitors alike, The Grosvenor is proving that a fresh menu and strong team can make all the difference.

Jeremy Clarkson’s Cotswolds Pub Adds English Wine to Stay True to Its ‘British Only’ Promise

By
Pub & Social Editorial Team
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The Farmer’s Dog in Oxfordshire has launched its own English wine range, marking another milestone in Jeremy Clarkson’s mission to serve only British-made food and drink.

Full Article

Jeremy Clarkson’s Cotswolds Pub Adds English Wine to Complete Its All-British Drinks Line-Up

Jeremy Clarkson has taken another step in his mission to champion British farming by introducing a new English wine range at his Oxfordshire pub, The Farmer’s Dog.

The former Top Gear and Clarkson’s Farm presenter bought the historic pub, formerly known as The Windmill, for around £1 million and reopened it in August 2025 as The Farmer’s Dog.

Since day one, Clarkson has made it clear that the pub would follow one uncompromising rule:

“If it’s not grown and reared in Britain, we’re not selling it, and that’s the end of it.”

That decision has meant no imported staples such as Coca-Cola or ketchup are served, a move that has sparked plenty of debate among visitors but has also won praise from farmers and supporters of British agriculture.

New Knollbury Fort English Wines Arrive at The Farmer’s Dog

The latest addition to the pub’s exclusively British menu is Knollbury Fort, a new range of English wines available both at the pub and online.

The launch fills one of the few remaining gaps in Clarkson’s all-British drinks collection, which already includes:

A statement from the pub said:

“There was a time when English wine was like a child’s recorder playing; you wanted to like it, but it wasn’t very good. Fortunately, that time has gone.

Thanks to warmer summers and expert farming, Britain grows excellent grapes and makes brilliant wine with them.”

The statement added that Knollbury Fort was created to “champion British farming and prove that this country now produces genuinely world-class wine.”

A Pub Built Around British Farming

The Farmer’s Dog has quickly become one of the most talked-about pubs in the UK.

Located near Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm, the pub attracts thousands of visitors who want to experience the food, drink and philosophy showcased in the hit Clarkson’s Farm series.

Everything on the menu is sourced from Britain wherever possible, reflecting Clarkson’s outspoken support for UK farmers.

The concept has turned the venue into more than just a pub — it has become a living showcase for British agriculture.

Clarkson’s Farm Series Five Set to Boost Visitor Numbers Again

The pub is expected to feature prominently in the fifth series of Clarkson’s Farm, which premieres on Prime Video on 3 June 2026.

The new season will cover Clarkson’s recent health scare, ongoing farming challenges, and the mounting pressures facing British agriculture.

With anticipation building, both The Farmer’s Dog and Diddly Squat Farm Shop are likely to see another surge in visitors over the summer.

Why English Wine Is Having a Moment

The launch also highlights the growing reputation of English wine.

Thanks to warmer climates, improved viticulture and significant investment, vineyards across southern England are now producing award-winning still and sparkling wines that compete on the world stage.

For Clarkson, adding English wine to his pub’s range completes his vision of a truly British drinks offering.

Conclusion

Jeremy Clarkson has built The Farmer’s Dog around a simple but powerful principle: support British farmers by serving British produce.

With the launch of Knollbury Fort English wine, that vision has become even more complete.

Whether you admire Clarkson’s no-nonsense approach or simply fancy trying an all-British wine list, The Farmer’s Dog continues to prove that pubs can be both profitable businesses and passionate advocates for local agriculture.

Former West London Pub Found Hiding Huge 700-Plant Cannabis Factory

By
Daniel Price
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Police uncover industrial-scale cannabis operation inside a former Acton pub after a raid reveals hundreds of plants spread throughout the building.

What was once a local pub serving pints to West London drinkers had been transformed into a large-scale cannabis factory containing around 700 plants, according to police.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police Service discovered the operation inside the former The Castle Pub in Acton after carrying out a warrant at the property.

The building, which had previously operated as a traditional neighbourhood pub, had been converted into a sophisticated growing facility capable of producing a substantial quantity of cannabis.

Industrial-Scale Growing Operation

Police found hundreds of cannabis plants spread throughout the former pub, along with lighting, ventilation systems and electrical equipment used to support the cultivation process.

Investigators believe the operation was set up to produce cannabis on a commercial scale.

Photos released by officers show room after room packed with plants, highlighting the dramatic transformation of the once-familiar public house.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said officers uncovered approximately 700 plants during the raid.

No Arrests Announced

At the time of reporting, police had not confirmed whether any arrests had been made in connection with the discovery.

Investigations are continuing to establish who was responsible for operating the cannabis factory and how long it had been running.

Cannabis farms are often linked to organised criminal networks and can pose serious fire risks due to tampered electrical systems and high-powered lighting.

Another Pub Lost to Crime

Across Britain, former pubs are frequently repurposed into flats, shops and other commercial uses after closure. In rare cases, disused buildings fall into the hands of criminals who exploit their size and secluded interiors.

The discovery in Acton is a stark reminder of how vulnerable vacant pub buildings can become when they stand empty.

For local residents, the news is both shocking and symbolic. A building once associated with community gatherings and social life was instead being used to house a major illegal drug operation.

The Importance of Protecting Britain’s Pubs

Pubs have long played a central role in British communities. When they close, it is not only a business that disappears, but often a vital social hub.

Stories like this underline the importance of finding positive new uses for former pubs and preserving these iconic buildings wherever possible.

Instead of serving customers, this former West London pub had become home to one of the largest cannabis farms discovered in the area in recent months.

Politicians Dismiss False Asylum Seeker Rumours as Uncertainty Grows Over Welsh Pub Closure

By
Daniel Price
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Community leaders urge residents not to spread misinformation after baseless claims linked the potential closure of the Bagle Brook Beefeater to asylum seeker accommodation.

Residents in Neath Port Talbot have been urged to ignore what local politicians have described as “completely unfounded and untrue” rumours suggesting a popular pub and restaurant could be turned into accommodation for asylum seekers.

The speculation began after reports emerged that the Bagle Brook Beefeater in Baglan may be among a number of venues facing closure as part of a major restructuring programme by Whitbread.

The site has become the subject of widespread discussion on social media, with false claims alleging the property was being sold to the Home Office for asylum accommodation.

Local councillors, the council, and senior politicians have all firmly denied the rumours.

Councillor Calls Rumours “Inflammatory”

Baglan councillor Josh Tuck issued a strong statement urging local residents to stop sharing what he described as damaging misinformation.

“I must ask that people please refrain from making inflammatory rumours regarding the Bagle Brook being sold to make way for housing for asylum seekers,” he said.

“Not only is this completely unfounded and untrue, but it seeks to cause division in our community.”

Tuck said the speculation was particularly unfair to staff at the restaurant, many of whom are already facing uncertainty about their jobs.

“It is highly disrespectful to add another layer of strife to the staff already worried for their jobs and for those who are worried for the future of a community pub.”

He also pointed out that Neath Port Talbot currently accommodates just 66 asylum seekers within a population of more than 143,000 residents.

“That is a tiny fraction. Please don’t buy into these baseless rumours.”

Council Confirms No Request Has Been Received

Neath Port Talbot Council confirmed that it has received no communication from the UK Government or the Home Office regarding the Bagle Brook site.

A council spokesperson said:

“We are aware of misinformation circulating online regarding The Bagle Brook. We have not received any communication or request from the UK Government to accommodate asylum seekers at this site.”

The council added that any decisions regarding asylum accommodation are made by the Home Office.

Senedd Members Back Calls for Calm

Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies supported the councillor’s comments, describing them as “voices of sense and facts at a time of rumour and mischief.”

Newly elected Alun Cox warned that some online groups were deliberately spreading false information to stir up unrest.

“These rumours are designed to frighten communities and to cause unrest,” he said.

“When they are subsequently proven false, some may even claim a ‘victory’ over a completely fabricated issue that was never going to happen.”

Whitbread’s Cost-Cutting Plans Put Thousands of Jobs at Risk

The uncertainty surrounding the Bagle Brook follows the announcement by Whitbread that it is implementing a five-year strategy aimed at delivering £250 million in cost savings.

The programme could lead to around 3,800 job losses across the UK and Ireland, with a number of Beefeater and Brewer’s Fayre restaurants potentially closing.

Whitbread said the proposals remain subject to consultation and that no final decision has yet been made regarding the future of the Bagle Brook.

A Pub at the Heart of the Community

In a joint letter to Whitbread chief executive Dominic Paul, local councillors Josh Tuck, Carol Clement-Williams and Susanne Renkes highlighted the Bagle Brook’s importance to the community.

“It is a place where families gather to celebrate milestones, friends meet to catch up over food and drinks, and local residents come together to maintain the social connections that are so important to community wellbeing,” they wrote.

The councillors called on Whitbread to reconsider the closure or, at the very least, provide greater transparency over future plans and meaningful support for affected employees.

The Bigger Picture

The Bagle Brook story highlights the emotional role pubs and restaurants play in British communities. When a local venue faces closure, uncertainty can quickly lead to rumours and speculation.

For many residents, the real concern is not a fabricated political narrative, but the possible loss of a valued meeting place and the jobs that depend on it.

As consultation continues, staff and customers are left hoping that one of Baglan’s best-known pub restaurants can avoid becoming another casualty of the hospitality sector’s ongoing challenges.

Yorkshire Tech Firm Says Virtual Reality Could Be a Game-Changer for Pubs During the World Cup

By
Daniel Price
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New immersive technology could help pubs attract bigger crowds, boost spending and create unforgettable matchday experiences ahead of football’s biggest tournament.

As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup gathers pace, one Yorkshire technology company believes pubs and bars across the UK could be sitting on a major opportunity.

Immersive Interactive, based in Leeds, is urging hospitality businesses to embrace virtual reality (VR) and immersive experiences to attract more customers and increase spending during one of the biggest sporting events on the planet.

The company says that while pubs have traditionally relied on large screens, special drinks offers and football-themed decorations, virtual reality could offer something entirely new — allowing customers to feel as though they are sitting pitch-side at the stadium itself.

Bringing the Stadium to the Pub

VR technology has advanced significantly in recent years, making it more accessible and affordable for businesses looking to create memorable customer experiences.

Using VR headsets and 360-degree video content, pub-goers could watch World Cup matches from unique perspectives, take part in interactive football challenges, or enjoy immersive games linked to the tournament.

According to Daily Business Now, the Yorkshire firm believes this technology can help pubs stand out from competitors and encourage customers to stay longer and spend more.

“[Insert company spokesperson quote here],” said a representative from Immersive Interactive.

Why Pubs Should Pay Attention

Major sporting tournaments have always been a crucial revenue driver for pubs. Packed venues, increased food sales and higher drinks spend can make a substantial difference to a pub’s turnover.

However, with many venues competing for the same customers, offering a unique experience can be the deciding factor.

Virtual reality gives pubs the chance to:

  • Create an exclusive matchday attraction
  • Encourage social media sharing and word-of-mouth marketing
  • Attract younger, tech-savvy audiences
  • Increase dwell time and customer spend
  • Generate additional revenue through ticketed VR experiences

The Rise of Experiential Hospitality

The hospitality industry is increasingly focused on delivering experiences rather than simply serving food and drink.

From immersive cocktail bars to themed events, customers are seeking memorable nights out that offer something beyond the ordinary.

By integrating VR into matchday events, pubs could tap into this growing trend and transform traditional football screenings into premium experiences.

Could VR Become the Future of Pub Entertainment?

While the technology may seem futuristic, experts believe immersive entertainment will become more common in hospitality venues over the next few years.

For pubs already investing heavily in sport, live music and themed events, virtual reality offers another way to innovate and stay ahead of the competition.

With the World Cup expected to draw huge crowds into pubs across Britain, now could be the ideal time for operators to experiment with new technology and create a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

A New Era for Matchday

British pubs have always been at the heart of major sporting events. Whether it’s football, rugby or darts, the atmosphere of a packed pub is difficult to beat.

If Yorkshire’s tech innovators are right, the next step in that evolution may involve strapping on a headset and stepping virtually into the stadium itself.

For pubs looking to maximise revenue during the World Cup, the future may already be here.

Cold Town Beer: The Edinburgh Brewery Letting Drinkers Decide What Gets Brewed Next

By
Jack Turner
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Edinburgh’s Cold Town Beer is building its name around a simple idea: if drinkers do not love a beer, they do not brew it again.

The Scottish brewer says its beers are handcrafted in small batches, tested on draught, and only moved into cans if they prove popular with drinkers.

A Brewery With Edinburgh History Behind It

Cold Town Beer takes its name from Calton Hill, which was once known as Caltoun, meaning “Cold Town”. The brewery also leans heavily into Edinburgh’s long brewing heritage, pointing to the city’s natural water and access to local barley as part of its beer-making story.

Chosen By Drinkers

Rather than simply producing beer and pushing it into the market, Cold Town says its range is “guided by you”. Beers are tank brewed first, then moved onto bars across the country if customers respond well. If they continue to sell, they are canned for wider sale.

Core Beers, Limited Editions And Big Scottish Character

Its range includes a Classic Core Range, an experimental LAB° Range, and special releases such as Super Swally. The LAB° beers are described by the brewery as small-batch, limited-edition and deliberately experimental.

A Brewery On The Rise

Cold Town Beer has also been gaining wider attention. In 2025, its Barrel Aged Imperial Stout was named Beer of the Year – United Kingdom at the London Beer Competition, while Cold Town House in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket was later named Scotland’s Best Beer Destination at the Scottish Beer Awards.

Why It Matters

In a crowded craft beer market, Cold Town’s approach feels refreshingly direct. Brew small, listen to drinkers, keep the favourites, and move on from the rest.

For pub lovers, it is another reminder that some of the best beer stories are not just about what is in the glass, but about the people choosing what survives.

Tags: Cold Town Beer, Edinburgh Beer, Scottish Beer, Craft Beer, Real Ale, Beer News, Pub Social, UK Breweries, Cold Town House, Beer Awards

BrewDog Set to Be Sold as Craft Beer Giant Faces Dramatic Shake-Up

By
Jack Turner
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Scottish craft beer powerhouse BrewDog is expected to announce the sale of the business early next week, in a move that could mark one of the biggest shake-ups in the history of British brewing.

Staff were informed by chief executive James Taylor that the company is preparing for a change of ownership after attracting significant interest from potential buyers.

Founded in 2007 by James Watt and Martin Dickie, BrewDog grew from a small brewery in Aberdeenshire into a global craft beer brand with more than 100 bars worldwide and around 60 locations across the UK.

Sale Announcement Expected Within Days

The company recently appointed restructuring specialists AlixPartners after failing to return to profitability in recent years.

In an email to employees, Taylor said there had been “a great deal of interest” from prospective buyers and promised a full update at a company-wide meeting early next week.

As part of the restructuring, BrewDog’s German business, including its brewery and bar in Berlin, will be liquidated and excluded from the sale.

The company will also temporarily suspend online sales to ensure a smooth transition, although its bars will continue trading as normal.

Brewdog has gown into a major brand from its small-scale beginnings in Aberdeenshire

What Happens to Equity for Punks Investors?

The possible sale has sparked concern among the 200,000 investors who participated in BrewDog’s famous “Equity for Punks” crowdfunding scheme.

The programme raised an estimated £75 million and helped fund BrewDog’s rapid expansion, but many small investors now fear their shares may be worth little or nothing depending on the final sale structure.

From Rebel Brewery to Global Brand

BrewDog built its reputation as a bold challenger to the traditional beer industry, known for outspoken marketing and hugely popular beers such as Punk IPA.

However, recent years have brought mounting pressures, including a £37 million loss, job cuts, bar closures and criticism over employment practices.

The expected sale marks a dramatic turning point for one of Britain’s most recognisable craft beer success stories.

Surrey Brewery Calls Last Orders as Rising Costs Force Closure

By
Jack Turner
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0

A respected Surrey microbrewery is preparing to brew its final batch as soaring energy bills, taxes and operating costs force the business to shut down after 14 years.

Thurstons Brewery in Horsell, near Woking, has announced that its current stock will be the last beer ever produced at the brewery.

Owner John Mintram said the dream had been to expand the brewery, but relentless cost pressures made that impossible.

“Covid came along but it’s just too much now with the gas and taxes,” he said. “It’s all getting too expensive.”

“You Can’t Sell £8 or £9 Pints”

John warned that customers are already feeling the squeeze and there is a limit to how much publicans can charge.

“People are feeling the squeeze — you can’t sell £8 or £9 pints,” he said.

Thurstons Brewery first opened in 2012 and moved next to The Crown in 2014, operating a 4.5-barrel brewing plant producing a range of popular local ales, bitters and stout.

Its beers have been supplied to pubs across Surrey, earning a loyal following among real ale enthusiasts.

The brewery is based at The Crown pub in Horsell

The Crown Pub Will Live On

While the brewery is closing, The Crown pub will remain open.

The final batches of Thurstons beers will be served exclusively at the pub, giving customers one last opportunity to enjoy the brewery’s award-winning ales.

Another Blow for Britain’s Brewers

The closure comes at a difficult time for the UK pub and brewing industry.

Recent figures from the British Beer and Pub Association show that 161 pubs closed in the first three months of 2026 — almost two every day.

Rising wage costs, higher business rates, increased utility bills and changing consumer habits continue to place enormous pressure on independent brewers and publicans.

For local beer lovers, the loss of Thurstons Brewery is another reminder of the challenges facing Britain’s traditional brewing industry.

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