Upon entering the Spread Eagle in Wandsworth, one might not immediately perceive its dire situation.
The establishment appears to be a pleasant pub, with cheerful bar staff, delightful Guinness, and overall cleanliness. Even on a Thursday evening in January, the pub is bustling with patrons. A sign outside advertises upcoming Six Nations matches to lift spirits during the winter season.
The Spread Eagle caters to a diverse crowd, as observed during a visit. There was a solitary man enjoying a meal and a book, two mothers with their children, and a group of marketers deep in Q2 strategy discussions.
While relatively calm on a Thursday night, one can imagine the Spread Eagle transforms into a lively spot on Saturdays, especially when the rugby enthusiasts swarm in. Despite this, the atmosphere remains considerate of guests staying in the 21 uniquely decorated rooms upstairs.
Despite its outward appearance and amenities, the Spread Eagle faces a significant challenge. According to a recent study, it has been dubbed the most severely affected pub in London.
Assigned this unfortunate title by Ben Guerin, the creator of ismypubf***ed.com, the Young’s-operated pub is grappling with a substantial increase in business rates. The analysis reveals that its rateable value is set to skyrocket by 622%, reaching £121,000 this year and resulting in an 833% surge in the annual tax bill to £46,452.
While the Spread Eagle stands out as the hardest hit in terms of percentage in London, it is part of a larger group of 5,000 pubs across the UK facing a doubling of property taxes.
Recent reports indicate that 13% of pubs, amounting to 5,100 establishments, have encountered a 100% rise in their rateable value, impacting their business rates. The financial strain on pubs, exemplified by the Bertie Arms in Lincolnshire facing a near 2,000% increase, is a cause for concern among pub owners like Katie and James Genever.
The challenging financial landscape for pubs is alarming. UK Hospitality warns that without support, six pubs could shutter daily in 2026, totaling over 2,000 closures for the year. This forecast surpasses the 378 closures recorded in the previous year.
Recognizing the critical role pubs play in local communities, Ben, originally from New Zealand, expresses deep concern over the declining state of British pubs.
In response to the mounting pressures faced by pubs, Labour is poised to reconsider rates increases and offer assistance to affected establishments. The government is expected to announce revisions in the calculation of business rates for pubs to alleviate the burden imposed after the Budget.
Emma McClarkin from the British Beer and Pub Association applauds the government’s decision to address business rates increases, emphasizing the relief this brings to pubs nationwide. The association worked closely with officials to ensure that pubs receive the support promised by the government.
Young’s declined to provide a comment on the matter.
