161 British Pubs Close in First Quarter of 2026, Costing 2,400 Jobs

Approximately two British pubs closed each day in the first quarter of 2026, according to industry figures.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) reported 161 pub closures across England, Scotland and Wales in the first three months of the year. That amounted to the loss of about 2,400 jobs.

The government announced business rates support for pubs earlier this year after the sector warned that further tax changes could trigger more closures. A 15 percent tax relief for pubs and music venues took effect last month.

The BBPA said the latest figures showed the need for longer-term changes, including a broader overhaul of taxes on the hospitality sector.

"The scale of these closures is avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade, but their profits are wiped out by a disproportionate tax burden and huge costs," said Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA.

She added: "We want to work with government to establish a permanent long-term plan that will deliver permanently lower bills, a fairer system and ultimately protect this treasured sector."

Pubs and hospitality venues across the UK have faced growing pressure in recent years from higher labor costs, rising business rates and changing consumer habits.

Latest data for Great Britain showed Wales as the only region with an increase in pubs. Scotland recorded the most closures, at 41 between January and March.

A government spokesperson said it was "backing Britain's pubs" through a 15 percent cut to April business rates bills, followed by a two-year freeze. The government also extended World Cup opening hours and raised the Hospitality Support Fund to £10 million ($12.7 million) to aid venue growth.

The government plans to expand its Pride in Palace programme, which provides grants for "locally-led solutions" in 280 neighborhoods in England as part of efforts to revitalize high streets.