The Twelve Bells, a historic pub located on the outskirts of Gloucester, has been saved from closure despite widespread cutbacks impacting many local pubs and restaurants. Once under the Beefeater brand, the pub was poised to shut its doors following parent company Whitbread’s decision to close all 106 Beefeater sites, alongside other chains including Brewers Fayre, Bar + Block, Table Table, Whitbread Inns, and Cookhouse + Pub outlets, as announced on 10 September.
Originally established in the early 16th century, the Twelve Bells carries over 500 years of history. Initially named the Three Bells, the pub was renamed in the 1700s following a significant 12-bell peal from Cirencester Church during a state occasion. At one point, it even housed a bakery operated by George Hawkins in the 1890s. The pub’s connection to local heritage is celebrated on its sign, which features Cirencester Church.
The Twelve Bells has undergone various transformations, notably in 1966 when extensive refurbishments led by West Country Breweries modernised and expanded the facility. The pub introduced snack offerings and added a “Copper Snug” smoking room, formerly a farm worker’s cottage. Traditionally a three-bar establishment, the Twelve Bells increased its kitchen space and placed a growing emphasis on food serving.
After a change in ownership in 1999, the pub maintained its longstanding tradition of providing hearty food and refreshment to both locals and travellers. Despite these efforts, the future of the Twelve Bells had appeared uncertain following Whitbread’s strategic decision to focus on in-house dining within Premier Inn hotels.
Relief came in August when reports emerged that Queensway Hospitality Group would take over 53 former Whitbread sites, including the Twelve Bells. The pub’s online presence has recently updated to reflect this change, with its Google listing renamed “Twelve Bells - Queensway Inns” and appearing on the new queenswayinns.com website.
On 9 September, a fresh Facebook page announced the new ownership’s commitment: “We’re delighted to announce that The Twelve Bells is now under new ownership and is open and trading as a new hospitality business. We’re looking forward to bringing a fresh approach, a warm welcome and a great hospitality experience to the local community, while building on the character and history that makes The Twelve Bells such a special place.”
The post continued, inviting both existing patrons and new visitors to experience the renewed venue, promising that despite fresh beginnings, the pub will maintain its iconic character.
Other local pubs affected by Whitbread’s closures include the Longford Inn Beefeater at Gloucester’s Premier Inn on Tewkesbury Road and Brewers Fayre establishments like The Whittle Inn in Brockworth and The Old Nelson in Stroud. While some closures appear permanent, The Old Nelson is expected to reopen under Queensway management later this year, according to updates on its CAMRA entry.
The Twelve Bells' successful transition offers hope for the preservation of historic and community-centred pubs amid significant industry challenges. Queensway Inns has been approached for further comment regarding their plans for the venue and other acquisitions.