The Ship Inn, a beloved pub nestled in Brimscombe within the Cotswolds, has announced a reduction in its opening hours alongside price increases. The management attributes these difficult decisions to recent government budget changes affecting wages and taxes, which have put significant pressure on the hospitality industry.
Landlord Wesley Birch, who manages several establishments in the Stroud Valleys, shared a heartfelt message on the pub’s social media pages explaining the situation. He said the new tax and wage demands make it impossible to maintain the pub as it currently operates without risking liquidation.
“This decision is entirely driven by the increased tax burdens placed on the hospitality and beer industries by the government,” Birch stated. “We have absorbed every possible cost increase to keep the pub you know and love running and to hold prices down. However, without these adjustments, our cherished community pub would no longer be viable.”
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The Ship Inn is well-known for its scenic location beside the canal and its popular Sunday lunches. Until now, the pub operated with fairly standard hours: opening at noon and closing at 8pm on Sundays, noon to 11pm on Thursdays through Saturdays, and 3pm to 11pm Monday to Wednesday.
Starting January 1, the pub will reduce its hours to improve sustainability and efficiency. Monday through Wednesday, opening will remain at 3pm, but closing times will move earlier to 7pm, except on quiz nights. On Thursdays and Fridays, opening will shift from noon to 3pm. Additionally, kitchen hours will be modified: food service will be available from 5pm to 9pm on Thursdays and Fridays, 12pm to 9pm on Saturdays, and noon to 6pm on Sundays.
Birch emphasized the difficulty of this announcement: “We have tried desperately to avoid these changes. Your support means the world to us. The Ship Inn is not just a business—it’s a cherished community hub, revived through shared effort. We are truly sorry but see this as the only way to keep the doors open for years to come.”
He reassured customers of their commitment to maintaining a vibrant and welcoming pub atmosphere. “Thank you for your understanding and loyalty. We look forward to welcoming you over the festive season and into a sustainable New Year.”
Birch also criticized government policies, saying, “Like many small businesses, we have been heavily impacted by rising wages and alcohol duties. Instead of relief, we’ve faced increased financial demands. We must now make these tough but necessary changes to ensure long-term survival, moving beyond merely surviving toward thriving once again.”