Last orders for Great British rural pubs without business rate relief

Could beloved pubs in farming communities, which play an invaluable role in tackling rural isolation, be about to close without a U-turn on business rate relief? What will be left for those who rely on them for warmth, friendship and a sense of community?

Chris Brayford

08 January 2026 • 6 min read

Image:

"Pubs are not just businesses, they are anchors for rural and village life. Piling on business rates will accelerate closures and hollow out our countryside."

Countryside pubs could soon be shutting down at an alarming number as Autumn Budget increases to business rates could leave many publicans facing bills they can ill-afford to pay. The British Beer and...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

CLA pledges to fight on against family farm tax

Oxford Real Farming Conference kicks off with lessons from nature

More on Politics

Politics

Farmer depot blockades blamed by retailers for no food on the shelves

Food producers said protests at supermarket depots have sent a powerful message to retailers, the Government and consumers how unfair the food system currently is and why it needs to change. But others have argued farmers 'lose the battle' once they block consumers from accessing food