One of Aberdeen’s oldest pubs is to close today, attributing the “hard decision” to the imminent expiry of its current lease agreement. The Old Kings Highway, a historic pub situated on The Green, reportedly dates back to the 1700s. The pub’s owners confirmed the closure, marking the end of an era for one of the city’s long-standing venues.
The announcement, shared via social media, detailed the unexpected turn of events:
“This morning we were due to finalise the details to a new multi year lease for OKH as our current one is about to expire…BUT instead we have decided to put our notice in and our time at the venue will now come to an end as we shut the venue this afternoon,” the owners stated. They expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the pub’s journey, acknowledging “all our staff , singers , DJs and customers!”
While The Old Kings Highway closes its doors, its sister venue, The Market Arms, located on Hadden Street, will continue to operate. The owners encouraged patrons to visit The Market Arms.
The closure has drawn comment from North East MSP Liam Kerr, who described the event as “a sad day for the social fabric of our city centre.” Kerr highlighted the loss of a venue that “has helped shaped Aberdeen for centuries,” expressing concern over the ongoing challenges facing the city’s hospitality sector.
Kerr further criticised local and national policies, suggesting they have contributed to a downturn in the city centre.
You Might Also Like:
Jazz festival under threat as iconic Aberdeen venue announces closure after 75 years
Popular Aberdeen restaurant The Firepit confirms permanent closure
Scottish Beer and Pub Association urges government support as pub closures outpace England
Perthshire Hotel provides Foodbank meals after closure threat
“Similarly to Union Street, businesses located at the Green have been starved of footfall by the council’s deplorable decision to implement permanent bus gates and LEZs in the city.
“This has been compounded by National Insurance hikes, and the Scottish Government’s failure to pass on business rates relief available in the rest of the UK.
“Ministers must pause the rates revaluation process immediately and give full exemption to certain hospitality businesses before more pubs call last orders.”
