I heard something truly shocking the other day: the number of London pubs fell by a quarter between 2001 and 2016. In just 15 years, the capital went from 4,835 pubs down to 3,615. That’s a loss of 1,220, or roughly 81 per year.
The reasons for this decline are well known. Rising rents, higher business rates, increased wages, and the smoking ban have all played a part. But these factors don’t tell the full story. Other forces are reshaping the social scene.
Diversify or Die
Over the past year, the Kinney Green Leisure team has seen an astonishing variety of requests. From laser tag arenas to bridge bars, the 21st-century Londoner demands more than just a pint and a jukebox.
Bars with a clear focus are thriving. Flight Club makes darts a social spectacle. Bounce puts ping pong at the centre of the evening’s fun. Spaces like Pop Brixton and Boxpark offer something new: part restaurant, part bar, and not quite a club. These “fourthspaces” are hugely popular with both retailers and punters.
Pop Brixton, built on disused land in the heart of Brixton, has given chefs, brewers, and mixologists a platform to showcase their talents. Success stories abound. My favourite is Kricket. It grew from a tiny Brixton stall into a critically acclaimed Soho restaurant, with queues permanently outside its Denman Street doors.
Creativity in repurposing space is particularly exciting in retail property. I can’t wait to see the UK’s largest foodhall open in the now-defunct BHS Oxford Street. It will span 36,000 sq.ft, featuring 25 restaurants and four bars, curated by Simon Anderson of Pitt Cue Co. fame.
Changing Tastes, Changing Times
Attitudes and tastes are evolving. Diners now want artisan Gloucester Old Spot Pork Pies with their small-batch gin and tonics. Some enjoy minimalist bass lines with their Caipirinhas. Others prefer a game of Buckaroo with their Guinness.
As London pubs continue to decline, innovative social spaces are stepping in to meet these new demands. But it’s important to remember the roots of our city’s drinking culture. Spare a thought for where it all began. Pay a visit to your Rose & Crown, pop into your Lamb & Flag, and support your London pubs. These historic locals must coexist alongside modern venues like Boxpark.
Kinney Green Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultants are experts in Central London retail markets. For advice on business rates, lease renewals, or property decisions, contact Neil Warwick for professional guidance.