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Last orders for Great British rural pubs without business rate relief

Could beloved pubs in farming communities, which play an invaluable role in tackling rural isolation, be about to close without a U-turn on business rate relief? What will be left for those who rely on them for warmth, friendship and a sense of community?

Chris Brayford
clock • 6 min read
"Pubs are not just businesses, they are anchors for rural and village life. Piling on business rates will accelerate closures and hollow out our countryside."
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"Pubs are not just businesses, they are anchors for rural and village life. Piling on business rates will accelerate closures and hollow out our countryside."

Countryside pubs could soon be shutting down at an alarming number as Autumn Budget increases to business rates could leave many publicans facing bills they can ill-afford to pay. The British Beer and...

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Last orders for Great British rural pubs without business rate relief

Last orders for Great British rural pubs without business rate relief

Could beloved pubs in farming communities, which play an invaluable role in tackling rural isolation, be about to close without a U-turn on business rate relief? What will be left for those who rely on them for warmth, friendship and a sense of community?

Chris Brayford
clock 08 January 2026 • 6 min read