Smoking ban: traditional inner city pubs have suffered most

Traditional inner city pubs have suffered the most since the introduction of  smoking bans in Scotland, England and Wales, says a new report from the Save Our Pubs and Clubs campaign.

The research conducted by CR Consulting, using data from CGA Strategy, revealed that the greatest levels of pub closures have been in Labour-held constituencies with an average of almost eleven pubs per constituency, compared to 9.9 pubs per Liberal Democrat constituency and 7.6 pubs per Conservative constituency. Click here to read more

Hurray for the Sunday Mirror’s campaign to save the Great British Pub

Save Our Pubs: The Sunday Mirror’s campaign to save the Great British local from extinction

They have been at the heart of our communities for centuries – but now Britain’s pubs are under threat.

Six close down every day and those still open face a constant struggle to survive.

The local is in crisis.

So today the Sunday Mirror calls on PM David Cameron to honour his election promise that his Government would be “pub-friendly and take the urgent action needed to protect a treasured national institution”. Click here to read more.


Any room at the inn?

There shouldn’t be. All the charm of a traditional pub but with a place to rest weary heads, British Inns are often overlooked as fantastic places to stay. I’ve recently found two shining examples of Inns that beat hotels hands down.

1) The Cat Inn, West Hoathly, Crawley

A great looking pub inside and out. From the moment I arrived I was made to feel at home. I was shown to my brilliant room with crisp white bed linen, clean decor, beautiful bathroom, LCD TV, tea, coffee, WiFi…really, really lovely and so much better than any five star hotel let alone a faceless BedFactory. You can’t buy history and when it’s done with style and by wonderfully welcoming people, there’s simply no better place to be.

2) The Bell at Skenfrith, Wales

This 17th century coaching inn is located in an idyllic setting on the banks of the river Monnow. Its eleven uniquely designed bedrooms are spacious and homely with spectacular views. Many of the ingredients of its outstanding menu are grown in the Inn garden and the bar has a great selection of local ales. The Inn provides details of great walks, fishing and other country pursuits and its owners, William and Janet Hutchings, are always on hand to help. Magic!