British pub closures near two a day in Q1 2026, industry group says

British pubs closed at a rate of almost two per day in the first quarter of 2026, according to figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).

The industry group said 161 pubs shut across England, Scotland and Wales between January and March 2026, equating to an estimated 2,400 jobs lost. The closures follow 336 reported pub closures in 2025.

What’s driving the closures The BBPA and wider industry have pointed to a combination of a disproportionate tax burden, rising operating costs and changing consumer habits. Scotland recorded the highest number of closures in the first quarter, with 41 pubs shutting.

Wales was the only region to report an increase in the number of pubs, according to the latest data for Great Britain.

Government measures The government has introduced a 15% business rates relief for pubs and music venues, which came into effect last month, and said this will be followed by a two-year freeze. It has also said it will extend World Cup opening hours and increase the Hospitality Support Fund to £10 million.

The BBPA said the latest closure figures underscored the need for longer-term changes, including a broader overhaul of taxes on the hospitality sector, to help support pubs’ long-term viability.