Punters dealt major blow as more Wetherspoons pubs set to close

Wetherspoons pub goers have been dealt another blow as the British pub chain closes down more locations.

The chain, owned by British businessman Tim Martin, has parted with dozens of locations in recent years as the service industry continues to struggle from economic woes caused by Covid, inflation, and cost-of-living pressures.

And now the Wetherspoon pub portfolio could be reduced by a further three as buyers are sought for a selection of properties across England and Wales.

However, some previously listed establishments have been saved and will continue to operate as Wetherspoons pubs.

The Hain Line in Cornwall closed on October 7, 2024, almost one year after JD Wetherspoon earmarked it for sale as one of 32 pubs in its portfolio to be put on the market.

At the time, the pub chain said the forthcoming closure was a "commercial decision" brought on by higher food and energy costs.

Meanwhile, The George in Wanstead called last orders for the final time on Sunday, October 13, in what one local punter said “felt like a true end of an era".

Since its closure, the former Wetherspoons site, which was well-loved by Wanstead residents, has been transformed into an upmarket site known as The George & Dragon, owned by the Urban Pubs and Bars chain.

Sharing his insight on the closure just before it occurred, Wanstead-based writer and film marker John Rodgers shared on his blog: “The pub will re-open under new ownership it will be as part of a more upmarket chain which will price out many of the regulars who had a second home at The George, particularly the older people who could sit there for a few hours with unlimited tea refills for a pound, or enjoy a cheap meal.”

Pub-goers in Swindon are still able to visit their local