Devon’s pub scene is in turmoil as multiple establishments shut down early in January
Devon: The pub scene in Devon is really taking a hit right now. A bunch of pubs and bars are closing down, and it’s happening fast. The number of pubs in the UK has been dropping for years, but it seems like January 2025 is particularly rough for Devon’s landlords.
We’re talking about all kinds of places, from cozy country pubs to lively music spots. Owners are saying they just can’t keep up with rising costs, inflation, and changing customer habits. It’s a tough time, and many are feeling the pinch in their wallets.
Reports say that about one in ten pubs in Britain are at serious risk of shutting down. Some are even labeled as technically insolvent. Just last year, DevonLive counted up the pubs that closed, including well-known spots like the Exeter Inn in Topsham and the Lamb in Longdown.
If January is any sign of what’s to come, 2025 might be even tougher for the pub industry. It’s especially heartbreaking to see rural pubs go. Many of these places have been around for centuries and are a big part of village life. Losing them feels like saying goodbye to a piece of history.
So, here’s a rundown of the pubs that have announced they’re closing or won’t be reopening in the first week of January 2025.
One of the latest to shut is Bar Nirvana in Barnstaple. They’ve been a go-to for live music and events, but financial pressures have forced them to close after a farewell night on January 11. The leaseholder, David Matthews, shared the news on Facebook, explaining that a mix of council regulations and rising costs made it impossible to keep going.
Then there’s the Bell Inn in Monkleigh, which will close for good on January 12. The owner, Joshua Johnson, took over just last May but found it too hard to keep the pub running. He expressed his sadness on Facebook, saying the rising costs and low trade levels made it unfeasible to continue.
In Exmouth, the Heavitree pub has also closed its doors unexpectedly. The owner, Keegan Walker, announced the closure on social media, saying it was a tough decision but necessary. The Heavitree has been a staple in the town for over a decade, and its sudden closure has left many locals in shock.
George Nightingale, known for his popular restaurant and bar in Exmouth, has also decided to close his venue, Spoken, and will no longer organize community events. He recently hosted a big New Year’s Eve bash, but now the future of his establishment is uncertain.
Lastly, there’s the Inn on the Green in Paignton, which closed back in October. Instead of a new pub, plans are in place for a car park, which has upset many locals who see the pub as a historic landmark. The local MP has voiced concerns about losing such an iconic spot.
