04/09/2024
****It is with great sadness we must announce The Pinkneys Arms is closing****
This is our last week - Sunday 8th our last trading day please come out and have one last visit if you are able to!
Like so many businesses (especially in hospitality) we have seen crippling increases in operational costs in the last two years, utilities especially have risen to a level which we are unable to sustain. In addition to this the restrictions on parking on Lee Lane saw a very significant drop in our levels of trade, most notably in the winter. The pub is so seasonally dependent and with two poor summers we are unable to see our way through another winter with such a limited indoor trade area.
It is also worth mentioning the major impact on events and live music our close neighbours, (some who moved in recently) have had on The Pinkneys Arms. They are currently running a campaign against the pub with the local authority and we are simply truncated in our operation, unable to trade the business to its fullest potential due to constant and unreasonable complaints such as people laughing too loudly and enjoying themselves, solo musicians on sunny afternoons and the clearing of tables after our guests leave. The constant pressure no matter what we do has removed a lot of the joy from the pub for the team and our guests.
It has been a magical 7 years, we wish we could stay a part of this wonderful community, but sadly we have now reached the end of our journey.
To all those who have supported us for so many years it is impossible to express in a simple post our gratitude to you - thank you.
To the vast number of people who have worked here over the years we thank you all form your effort and dedication - we have been fortunate to work along side some truly great people and as part of some wonderful teams.
Personally I want to to thank Holly, who’s work ethic, cheerfulness and love for the pub has carried us such a long way, I know so many will miss her greatly and miss her presence in this village.
No reopening is planned and the pub is sadly to be boarded up.
Please share your pictures and memories with us below - thank you all so much!
James on behalf of Holly and the team
PS leaving drinks are on Sunday all day!
