51AVÊÓÆµ

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
clock • 6 min read
"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."
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.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Politics

Upland farming pressures highlighted in Efra Committee meeting

Upland farming pressures highlighted in Efra Committee meeting

Issues involving income streams, access to agri-environment schemes and land management were discussed by upland farming representatives

Mia Willemsen
clock 10 September 2026 • 4 min read
From the editor: Food security cannot survive on warm words alone

From the editor: Food security cannot survive on warm words alone

Katie Jones
clock 10 September 2026 • 2 min read
Lib Dems call for bigger farm reservoir fund as £15m 'does not scratch the surface'

Lib Dems call for bigger farm reservoir fund as £15m 'does not scratch the surface'

The Liberal Democrats have called for a major expansion of Government support for on-farm water storage, warning the current £15 million fund is not enough to match the scale of drought losses

Tom Ryder
clock 09 September 2026 • 3 min read