Overview
- The Old Bull Inn in Inkberrow, a 16th-century pub widely regarded as the model for The Archers’ The Bull, faces possible closure, according to landlord Joe Reed.
- Reed cites the end of 40% Covid-era business rates relief from April and a rates revaluation, alongside the earlier rise in employers’ National Insurance to 15%, as tipping points for costs.
- The Treasury has announced support that gives pubs 15% off business rates next year with bills then frozen in real terms for two further years, which Reed says only delays higher charges.
- Reed reports a hiring freeze and says the pub is solvent but barely profitable, with tourist trade from the radio drama’s fans helping without restoring margins.
- Sector context cited in the coverage notes analysis of Valuation Office Agency data showing 500-plus pub closures since mid-2024, and Reed estimates his annual rates could jump from about £14,000 to around £26,000 after revaluation.