Shock as 'last working-class' pub in Bristol neighbourhood suddenly closes

A long-running Bristol pub has suddenly closed its doors. The Sugar Loaf on St Mark's Road in Easton has ceased trading with immediate effect.

A notice outside the pub says the closure is "due to rising costs suffered across all aspects of the business and the health deteriorating of the licensee."

"Despite measures put in place by the brewery to aid the operation of the Sugar Loaf, the Sugar Loaf has ceased trading," it adds.

The pub, owned by Star Pubs (a subsidiary of Heineken) is hugely popular with locals living around St Marks Road and conveniently located a short walk from Stapleton Road station.

A post on the pub's Facebook says it closed its doors yesterday (January 4) with a send-off for landlord Martin Donlin, who took on the building in August 2018.

"It's sad to say but the Loaf is now closed," the post read.

"We had a good night to send off Martin and the team, much appreciated. The team were amazing as usual.

"Thanks to everyone that came, big thanks to Billy singing away, unsure what the future brings but I will keep you posted."

In 2019, a bid to take over the pub by Bristol chain Zazu Kitchen Pubs was unsuccessful after locals launched a petition against the move.