The Three Jolly Butchers in North Road announced the closure on social media, stating: “Some very sad news for us all, our wonderful pub will be closing at the end of this week.
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“Come in and say goodbye and make the most of our lovely sun trap for the rest of this sunny weekend. We will miss you.”
The pub, known locally for its Thai food and back room, The Snug, has not confirmed whether the site will continue under new ownership.
Customers responded to the announcement by sharing memories of the venue, with many describing it as a long standing local pub.
‘Another one bites the dust’
One former operator, Richard Gunter, said he ran the pub from 1987 to 1989 and had “a loyal crew” during his time at the site.
He said: “Visited a couple of years ago and love what it had become. Very sad news indeed. Another one bites the dust.”
Another former operator, Mark Davis, said he had run the pub for almost 20 years, describing it as an “old school” pub with darts teams, crib teams and “great punters”.
Sector pressures
Others pointed to the wider pressures facing the sector, including business rates, duty and rising operating costs.
One commenter said: “Government should slash business rates for pubs, bars and restaurants and tax and duty on drinks sold in bars.”
Another said: “Sadly with the hospitality climate it’s heartbreaking but so real at the moment.”
Several customers also raised concerns around changing trading patterns, with one suggesting the pub had previously benefited from office workers in the area before Covid.
They said: “From what I gather pre-Covid it had a great business from office workers in the area, lunchtime, post work drinks, but always closed early as it wasn’t a night venue.
“Obviously with so many now working from home you’re not going to attract that same clientele.”
Other customers described the pub as a “proper old school” venue, with many referencing its Thai food and role as a first stop from Brighton station into the city.
One commenter said: “Shame. Was great for a good Thai meal in relaxed friendly surroundings.”
Another added: “Visit Brighton and love this pub and the Thai kitchen. So sorry to hear of its closure.”
The closure comes amid continued pressure on the pub sector, with operators facing higher labour, energy and food costs, alongside business rates and wider consumer spending challenges.
