The Hollow Bottom, a well-known pub in Guiting Power, Cotswolds, shocked patrons this week with its sudden closure. The beloved venue, popular among racing owners and enthusiasts celebrating victories like the Gold Cup and Grand National, ceased operations with immediate effect.
Over the years, The Hollow Bottom has seen several ownership changes. It temporarily closed for several months in 2019 before reopening under new management. In 2022, Young’s brewers took over from Julian Dunkerton’s Lucky Onion Group, who had acquired the pub after its previous closure when landlord Hugh Kelly retired after 18 years.
Young’s issued a statement explaining the closure: “After a careful review of our plans for the Hollow Bottom, we decided to close the business from Monday 9th June 2025 ahead of the end of our lease later this summer. We would like to thank the local community for their support over the last three years. We will be in contact directly with any customers who have future bookings with the pub.”
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Known affectionately as ‘the Festival pub,’ The Hollow Bottom has a rich history of hosting TV and radio shows during racing festivals. It has been a cherished gathering spot for decades.
Reports suggest new owners, believed to be Innkeeping Ltd, are seeking a tenant to take over the pub. The company has yet to comment on the situation.
The announcement has triggered an outpouring of nostalgia and well-wishes on social media. Many hope this closure is only temporary. One visitor wrote: “Sad news. A great stopover before and after the festival.” Another said: “I do hope it’s not closing for good! First went there over 50 years ago.” A third added: “The first pub we stayed at before deciding to move to the area. Very sad indeed.”
What are your fondest memories of The Hollow Bottom? Share your thoughts in the comments below.