A rural pub in Devon has become the latest to shut its doors – with the owner blaming rising costs. The Bell Inn, Monkleigh, will close for good on Sunday, January 12.
Joshua Johnson only took over the pub near Bideford in May of last year but says it has become impossible to keep trading. He said in a post to customers on Facebook: “It is with the deepest regret and sadness that we must inform you that The Bell Inn, Monkleigh, will be closing its doors for good on Sunday, 12th January, for the foreseeable future.
“I personally don’t know myself what will be happening with the bell once we depart. This decision has not been an easy one, but due to current trade levels and the rising costs of running the business, we are no longer able to operate effectively.”
The Bell Inn describes itself as a traditional pub and dates from the 17th Century. It shares many of the picturesque features found on a typical Devon country pub – a thatched roof, classic pub interior and a stunning garden with views across the countryside. When he took over Josh told DevonLive he had high hopes of building it up and attracting more customers but it has proved too much of a task.
The post adds: “We will continue to operate during our normal hours up until our final day, though no additional stock will be ordered for either drinks or the main menu. However, we will still be serving our final Sunday carvery on 5th January 2025.
“On behalf of myself, Josh, and the team here at The Bell Inn, we would like to thank you all for your incredible support during our time here.”
Bell Inn closing
The Bell Inn is the latest in a depressingly long line of Devon pubs to close down. The Heavitree pub in Exmouth has also just announced it will shut with “immediate effect”. That came just days after restaurant and bar Spoken In The Strand shut down.
A number of people have commented on the post. One says: “Unfortunately this just the start. The changes to NI and the minimum wage going up 16% imposed on small businesses by this so called business-friendly government has made it very difficult for small businesses to remain in business.”
Another said: “I wonder how many people are commenting on sad it is. Have actually been there for drinks and a meal? If you don’t use it you lose it. They need customers to survive.”
A third said: “Sad to hear this… Wishing you all the best for future ventures.”