‘Maybe it’s because we love the sesh’: how Wales is bucking Britain’s pub-closing trend
Summary
While many pubs in Britain closed in early 2026 due to rising costs and taxes, Wales is seeing new pub openings. In Cardiff and other Welsh towns, entrepreneurs like Lewis Dwyer have opened new pubs, supported by the local community and crowdfunding.Key Facts
- In the first quarter of 2026, 161 pubs closed across Britain, about two per day.
- The closures increased by 26% compared to the same period in 2025.
- These closures resulted in the loss of around 2,400 jobs.
- Wales was the only part of Britain where new pubs opened, with at least three new venues starting in early 2026.
- The Pig & Swill in Cardiff is one new pub opened by local restaurateurs Lewis Dwyer and Andy Aston.
- The Pig & Swill raised £29,000 through a Kickstarter campaign to help with renovations.
- Local hospitality in Wales still faces challenges, including closures of restaurants and hotels.
- Industry leaders call for government support on taxes and costs to help hospitality businesses survive and grow in Wales.
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