02/06/2026
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
IT IS WITH GREAT SADNESS THAT WE HAVE TO ANNOUNCE THE CLOSURE OF THE GOLDEN CROSS, ARDENS GRAFTON.
After many months of careful consideration and exploring every possible avenue to remain open, we have made the heartbreaking decision to close The Golden Cross with Immediate effect.
This has not been a decision taken lightly. The Golden Cross is not only our business but also our family home. We have invested everything we could, both financially and personally, to keep it going. We have worked tirelessly to find solutions that would allow us to continue trading while causing as little disruption as possible to our children, our staff, and everyone who depends on the pub.
Despite our best efforts, the reality is that business is no longer financially sustainable. Rising operating costs, increased wage bills, higher National Insurance contributions, escalating energy costs, supplier price increases, and the ongoing pressures facing the hospitality industry have created circumstances that we can no longer overcome.
We want everyone to know that every possible step to avoid this outcome has been explored. We have continued for as long as we responsibly could, but we have now reached the point where carrying on would place an even greater burden on our family and those around us.
Our greatest sadness is the impact this will have on the people who have been part of The Golden Cross journey. We are incredibly grateful to our dedicated staff, whose hard work and loyalty have helped make this pub what it is, and to our loyal customers, many of whom have become friends over the years.
The Golden Cross has been more than a pub. It has been our home, a meeting place for the community, and the setting for countless memories. We will always be thankful for the support, kindness, and friendship shown to us throughout the years.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our story.
With sincere gratitude,
Laura, Felan & The Golden Cross Team
