A Historic Pub Faces Uncertain Future
The Old Bull Inn, a half-timbered pub located on the village green in Inkberrow, Worcestershire, has been a part of the community since the 16th century. It is not only a beloved local establishment but also a source of inspiration for the fictional village of Ambridge featured in BBC Radio 4’s long-running serial, The Archers. This historic site, known for its rich history and charm, is now facing an uncertain future due to rising business costs.
Joe Reed, the landlord of the Old Bull Inn, has voiced concerns about the financial pressures his business is experiencing. He mentioned that while trade remains steady, the added costs are becoming increasingly difficult to manage. “We put the hours in – I work around 60 hours a week – and it would be nice to be rewarded for that,” he said.
In the November Budget, Rachel Reeves announced the end of the 40 per cent business rates relief that was in place during the pandemic. This decision, along with an increase in the minimum wage and employer National Insurance contributions, has led to significant challenges for pubs across the country. Hospitality leaders warned that these changes could force many pubs to close their doors.
The backlash from the industry led to a climbdown by the government, resulting in a Treasury support package. Pubs in England will receive a 15 per cent discount on their business rates next year, with bills frozen in real terms for the following two years. However, Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride criticized this as merely delaying the pain, and Mr. Reed echoed this sentiment, stating that the Chancellor was “kicking the can down the road.”
Mr. Reed, who has been the landlord of the Stonegate Group-owned pub since 2019, noted that the increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions from 13.8 per cent to 15 per cent in 2024 had already significantly impacted his wage bill. With eight staff members, including one full-time and others part-time, he has had to halt all recruitment. “We’re having to run around doing stuff ourselves a lot more than before,” he said.
He also fears that his rent will increase when it is reassessed in two years. Combined with the rate increases, this makes him seriously consider whether it is worth continuing. “We are still solvent, but we are fortunate in that we get tourists coming here because of the link to The Archers… but still we’re not making a killing. We are paying the bills but that’s about it. The days of making big profits are long gone.”
The Impact on Local Community
The Old Bull Inn is not just a pub; it is the heart of the village. It serves as a central social hub and is a popular destination for fans of The Archers. Visitors come to enjoy pints like ‘Ambridge locals’ and take in memorabilia such as signed scripts and cast photos that adorn the pub’s walls. This connection to the show has brought a steady stream of tourists, especially during the summer months.
However, the challenges faced by the pub are not isolated. An analysis of Valuation Office Agency figures shows that over 500 pubs have closed since Labour came to power in July 2024. This trend is concerning for the local community, which relies heavily on these establishments for social interaction and economic activity.
In addition to the financial pressures, the pub is also dealing with the aftermath of a controversy involving the village cricket team. The club faced criticism for secretly paying certain players last season after their promotion, only for the season to end in relegation. Club captain Freddie Pargetter called a meeting at The Old Bull to discuss the way forward, but he was sidetracked and missed the meeting. This incident led to concerns about the future of the cricket team.
William Shakespeare is said to have stopped off at The Old Bull on his way from Stratford-upon-Avon to Worcester to collect his marriage licence to Anne Hathaway. Additionally, Godfrey Baseley, the creator of The Archers, was known to drink at the pub. Inkberrow, along with other nearby locations such as Hanbury, has featured in publicity material for the show, which is recorded in Birmingham, 23 miles north.
