British pubs faced a challenging year in 2025, with one establishment closing its doors permanently every day due to persistent cost pressures.
New figures, derived from an analysis of official government statistics, reveal that 366 pubs were either demolished or repurposed for other uses in the 12 months leading up to December.
Industry leaders have described the situation as "drastic," particularly as many pubs anticipate increased property tax payments from April. The data, compiled by tax specialists at Ryan, indicates a decline in the total number of pubs across England and Wales, including vacant premises, from 38,989 to 38,623 over the year.
Alex Probyn, practice leader for Europe and Asia-Pacific property tax at Ryan, told the Press Association: “These pubs have closed permanently, not temporarily.
“The buildings have been demolished or converted into housing, offices, nurseries, cafés or other uses.
“Once repurposed, they almost never return to pub use.”
The figures highlight mounting pressure on the hospitality sector, with nearly 2,000 pubs disappearing over the past five years, even though the pace of decline has slowed marginally.
Every region of England and Wales recorded a net loss of pubs during 2025, with the largest declines seen in the East Midlands, North West and Yorkshire & the Humber, according to the figures.
The closures came as pubs were among businesses to face increases in the national minimum wage and national insurance contributions in April this year.
Next year, many pubs face another increase in their costs, with the average business rates payment for pubs set to rise from April following an average increase in rateable values of 30 per cent.
Mr Probyn added: “This data should serve as a wake-up call. It reflects deep structural pressures on pubs.
“Many survived the pandemic through resilience and community support, only to be pushed to the brink by rising costs and a rating system that no longer reflects economic reality.”
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “Every time we lose a pub we lose a piece of our social fabric.
“Many of these closures are totally unnecessary and the result of a heavy tax and rates burden, which is why it’s never been more vital for a pub-specific business rates relief which could prevent more closures and more job losses.
“The situation is drastic and we want to work with Government to ensure pubs are given a fair deal otherwise communities will lose cherished local institutions and, once they’re gone, they’re gone for good.”
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