Village Pub, Closes Its Doors Amid Rising Costs...

The hope & Anchor in Greatham

The move comes ahead of the Governments Autumn Statement, where its expected the Pub Industry will see yet more tax hikes, forcing many other public houses in the region to close.

11th October 2025

Concerns of an exodus of pub closures in the wake of the Governments Autumn Statement are being raised, after yet another public house this week announced its closure, citing a combination of rising costs and unsustainable new terms from the brewery as the final blow.

In a heartfelt social media post, the owners of The Hope & Anchor revealed that the decision had come only after “much deliberation and with heavy hearts,” describing how increasing pressures from the government, local council, and the brewery had left them with “no viable way to continue trading sustainably.”

“This isn’t a decision we’ve taken lightly — we’ve done everything we could to make it work,” the post reads. “Sadly, the circumstances have left us with no other option.”

To mark its farewell, the pub announced reduced drink prices and its usual “Fish & Chip Friday” food deals for its final day of trading. Locals were invited to come down, raise a glass, and share one last memory before the doors close for good.

The closure is said to be part of a wider trend that’s seeing smaller pubs and independent hospitality venues across Teesside and County Durham struggling to survive. Many have pointed to steep energy bills, business rates, and increased supplier costs as driving factors — with some publicans also blaming local council charges and a lack of any meaningful government support.

While the team at The Hope & Anchor expressed sadness at the end of their journey, they also shared hope that someone new might take on the venue in the future, helping it to thrive once again for the benefit of the community.

“We sincerely hope that things change in the future for whoever takes on the pub next, so it can become a sustainable and thriving place once again — both for the landlords and for you, the community that makes it what it is.”

The message ended with a heartfelt thank-you to all who supported the pub.