The Hog at Horsley, a beloved independent pub in Gloucestershire, has reluctantly raised the price of its pints by 20–30p, amid soaring operational costs driven by recent government policy changes. Landlord Luke Honeychurch has issued a heartfelt plea to customers, asking them to understand the necessity behind the modest price hike and to “please don’t moan too loudly.”
Luke warns that small pubs like his are facing unprecedented financial pressure, with changes implemented in the latest Budget compounding the struggles of an already fragile industry. According to Luke, the combination of increased business rates, higher alcohol duties, and rising wage costs is pushing many independent pubs toward collapse.
“Our rateable value has doubled, and without any meaningful small business rate relief, we’re looking at paying £712 more every month,” said Luke. “While the minimum wage has gone up, the tax thresholds haven’t changed, so our staff don’t actually benefit — but the pub still faces higher wage bills.”
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Despite government claims of support for hospitality, Luke feels the reality on the ground tells a different story. He admits that although The Hog is trying to weather the storm, the financial strain has become personal: “I pay myself roughly £6 an hour for the hours I work, but this month I had to reduce my wage to half my usual pay.”
Luke emphasized that the price increase isn’t about profit but survival. “The fire is warm, the beer is cold, and the conversation can be good — we have no plans to close. But when everything from food to supplies is costing 100% more than before, please try to be understanding. A small rise on your pint is what helps keep our doors open.”
Industry analysis supports Luke’s concerns, indicating that the average pub’s rates bill is set to soar by nearly 66% over the next few years. Hospitality experts warn that these increases, combined with higher taxes and wages, severely limit pubs’ ability to invest and grow.
Nick Mackenzie, CEO of Greene King, voiced disappointment at the lack of targeted support in the Budget: “Pubs are crying out for government backing. Without relief on business rates and rising costs across the board, pubs have little room to invest in jobs or their communities.”
The Hog at Horsley’s price rise may be small, but it reflects a broader crisis facing independent pubs nationwide — one that threatens the very heart of British social life.