The Purefoy Arms to close for good
The Preston Candover-based pub holds two AA rosettes and is currently ranked as Great Britain’s 67th top gastropub.
Head chef Gordon Stott addressed his “wonderful customers” on X, formerly Twitter, to make the announcement.
He said: “After an amazing five and a half years of running the Purefoy Arms, because of unexpected happenings, we will be closing our doors permanently as of the 27 January 2024.
“This is a very difficult message for us to be writing but we are so thankful for all your support over the years and have loved every minute.
“If you have a booking after this date then we will be in contact with you.
“Any vouchers will not be valid after this date.
“We really hope you understand and thoroughly apologise for any inconvenience caused.
“We have loved our time here and getting to know all our wonderful customers.”
X users responded to the news with shock. ”Oh good grief, literally the best restaurant in about a 30 mile radius… only wish we could come more often, so gutted for you all,” said one person.
“Dreadful news,” another added.
This comes after data from The British Beer & Pub Association revealed that 750 pubs are set to close in the first half of 2024.
The report from Frontier Economics also suggested energy bills were 300% higher than pre-pandemic levels and tax pressures were causing the sector to struggle.
The Top 50 Gastropubs awards described the Purefoy Arms as having a modern rustic fee, with tasting menus available alongside dishes such as scotch egg with onion & ale chutney to start, and dishes like wild sea bass with maple glazed bacon for mains.
Stott was crowned Best Pub Chef at the Great British Pub Awards 2021.
