Pub Numbers in England and Wales Drop to Record Low in 2024

Rising costs, tax changes, and reduced consumer spending drive the closure of 412 pubs this year, the highest rate since 2021.

The total number of pubs in England and Wales fell below 39,000 for the first time, with 412 closures recorded in 2024.
Closures averaged 34 per month, marking the sharpest decline since the pandemic-hit year of 2021.
London experienced the highest losses, with 55 pubs closing, followed by the West Midlands, which lost 53.
Industry leaders cite rising costs, including increased National Insurance contributions, minimum wage hikes, and reduced business rate discounts, as key challenges for pub operators.
More than 2,000 pubs have closed since 2020, with analysts warning that upcoming tax changes in 2025 could further threaten the viability of many establishments.