Number of pubs in the capital remains steady

The number of pubs in London remained stable between 2017 and 2018 after falling by more than a quarter since 2001, according to statistics from City Hall.

The figures, published last week, identified 3,540 pubs in the capital in March 2018, an increase of 10 pubs from 2017. A total of 11 boroughs saw an increase in pubs, with numbers staying the same in nine boroughs, but falling in 13 boroughs. The boroughs to see an increase were Brent, Bromley, Croydon, Hackney, Harrow, Islington, Lambeth, Lewisham, Tower Hamlets, Wandsworth and Westminster.

Employment across the pub sector has also remained stable between 2017 and 2018 at 46,000.

According to a City Hall survey, pubs still remain important to locals, with 74% of Londoners think that they are important for the London’s cultural heritage, with 45% visiting a pub at least once a month.

The figures come after the Mayor Sadiq Khan revealed last month that the number of grassroots music venues in the capital has risen in the last year and the number of LGBTQ+ venues remained stable for a second year running, following a decade of decline for both.

Khan said: “London pubs have been a key part of our capital’s heritage for generations, helping to unite Londoners and acting as a vital hub in the community. Sadly their numbers have been falling for decades, which is why I’ve been doing all I can to support the trade and turn this tide of closures.

“I’m encouraged by these results, but with pressure from rates, rent and development, it’s crucial that the government and local authorities give them their full support too.”