A bar that hosts live music and events in North Devon says it has been forced to close due to financial pressure and red tape hitting the hospitality industry. Bar Nirvana at the Rabbit Hole in Barnstaple says it will shut after a farewell evening on Saturday [January 11].
David Matthews, the leaseholder, posted the news on Facebook. He said: “It’s clear that a combination of external pressures, from council regulations to financial challenges, has made it increasingly difficult to sustain operations.
“The enforcement to remove the outside stage and having already lost the heated pods has been a significant loss, especially since they’ve likely been central to the venue’s unique charm and ability to host events.
“The cost of living crisis and upcoming budget changes are only going to add to the difficulty of running such a space. This decision wasn’t made lightly and reflects the harsh realities faced by many businesses in the hospitality and events industry.”
Bar Nirvana in Barnstaple
(Image: Bar Nirvana)
The escape room will continue. Matthew said: “The Our Escape Room operations are a separate entity and therefore we are and can honour all bookings for these experiences and indeed are able to continue taking bookings for all our rooms and our mobile escape room.
“We have been privileged to have been part of peoples lives of all ages and with so many different styles of events so a very big thank you to you all.”
It is the latest bar in Devon to close and reflects pressures faced by the industry. The Bell Inn in nearby Monkleigh announced last week that will close for good on Sunday, January 12.
The owner said decision was made due to current trade levels and the rising costs of running the business. 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.
Escape Down the Rabbit Hole, Barnstaple
(Image: Escape Down the Rabbit Hole)
There have been strong reactions online to Nirvana closing with a number of people leaving comments on the post. One said: “Really sad news, another hard working business destroyed by council jobsworths and entitled councillors.”
Another added: “Very sad news. Didn’t realise that you had to remove the outside stage and pods. That was a huge attraction and feature for the venue. Terrific atmosphere for music events. Hold your heads high, you did a great job.”
A third said: “Gutted, this is one of the best things to happen to Barnstaple in decades, as a DJ who’s toured many countries I’ve been to a lot of events in my time, personally I have really enjoyed the nights out here and the council have successfully destroyed something else we all love and cherish with their utter lack of understanding or respect for anyone.”