Centuries-old Gloucester pub secured from closure following new ownership

The Twelve Bells, a historic pub located on the outskirts of Gloucester, has been saved from closure after a change in ownership was confirmed.

Long a feature of the local community, the pub was previously operated as a Beefeater under the Whitbread group. However, Whitbread announced the closure of all 106 Beefeater sites on 10 September as part of a major restructuring effort affecting several of its restaurant brands, including Brewers Fayre, Bar + Block, Table Table, Whitbread Inns, and Cookhouse + Pub.

Though Beefeater was established in 1974, the Twelve Bells’ history stretches back much further. According to archival articles dating to April 1999, the pub has served the public since the early 16th century and stands at the foot of Crickley and Birdlip hills. Originally named the Three Bells, the pub’s name was changed in the 1700s to commemorate a twelve-bell peal from Cirencester Church during an important state occasion, a history reflected in the pub’s signage.

Throughout the centuries, the Twelve Bells has maintained its role as a vital local inn and was notably upgraded in 1966 when West Country Breweries undertook extensive refurbishments. These improvements included the introduction of snacks to accompany drinks and the enlargement of the kitchen area. The pub also gained a room known as the Copper Snug, formerly a farm worker’s cottage, enhancing its traditional character.

Following a change in landlord in 1999, the pub continued its long-standing tradition of serving food and refreshment to locals and travellers alike, projecting a bright future beyond the turn of the millennium.

Despite the recent closure announcements by Whitbread, hope for the Twelve Bells emerged in August when reports indicated that Queensway Hospitality Group was set to acquire 53 of the affected sites. Reflecting this development, the pub’s digital presence, including its Google review page, has been rebranded to ‘Twelve Bells - Queensway Inns,’ and the pub now features on a new website belonging to Queensway Inns.

On 9 September, a new Facebook page for the Twelve Bells confirmed the change in ownership and assured the public that the pub is open and trading under the new management. The message highlighted intentions to offer a fresh approach while preserving the pub’s unique character and rich history, welcoming both returning patrons and new visitors to an “exciting new chapter.”

Elsewhere in Gloucester, closures have also affected other Whitbread-affiliated sites such as the Longford Inn Beefeater and establishments previously part of the Brewers Fayre chain, including The Whittle Inn in Brockworth and The Old Nelson in Stroud. However, some venues like The Old Nelson are temporarily closed with plans to reopen under Queensway management, demonstrating ongoing efforts to retain local hospitality venues within the community.

Queensway Inns have been contacted for comment on these developments.