Punters gutted after 200-year-old pub announces shock closure

A 200-year-old pub described as being of ‘exceptional, national, historic importance’ will close next week after being unexpectedly sold. The Royal Oak, Union Street, Oldham, which is Grade II-listed, including its interior, is famed for its polished mahogany curved bar, etched stained glass and Victorian tiles.

Last orders are set to be called on Friday, November 24. The Oak is a multi-room pub with a function room on the first floor.

Due to its listed heritage, any unauthorised material alterations to the building both inside and out would be 'an immediate criminal offence’, according to a council conservation officer.

READ MORE: "Not a day goes by that we don't miss her..." - Tributes to woman killed by her partner in brutal hammer attack

READ MORE: Fire breaks out at row of houses before people evacuat

The Oak is a meeting place for more than 10 local groups including the thriving weekly ‘Folk at the Oak’ music club, the Royal British Legion, a railway enthusiasts’ group and even a choir. Earlier this week, in a move which surprised licensee of 15 years, David Sweeney, and dozens of customers, the pub building’s owners, Inglenook Group said the premises should be vacated by no later than Sunday, November 26.

Inglenook Group have not disclosed who the new owners are or what the intention is for the future of the premises, although it is understood to be being sold. The move has left the pub’s supporters fearing the building could be developed for possible residential or commercial use, despite its listed status.

Licensee David Sweeneycsaid: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce that The Royal Oak will close its doors on November 24. “This is out of our control as the owners have decided to sell the building