Temperatures soared across the UK on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 June as a severe heatwave gripped the nation.
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London reached around 36°C, while parts of southern England, including Hampshire and Surrey, exceeded 35°C, with some areas approaching 40°C.
Northern regions also saw unusually high mid-30s, making it one of the hottest June spells on record.
Multiple operator Tim Skinner, who runs the Devonshire Arms in Marylebone, London, and the Prince Albert in Guildford, said the heatwave had significantly altered trading patterns.
Speaking to The Morning Advertiser (The MA), Skinner said central London sites had been particularly affected as office workers opted to work remotely rather than travel into the capital.
As a result, the Devonshire Arms was trading 20% behind forecasts.
In contrast, Skinner noted neighbourhood pubs had remained more resilient, supported by evening trade.
Remain flexible
“Operationally, we’ve had to adapt,” he continued.
Skinner explained he had introduced additional hydration breaks for teams at his pubs, increased staffing during key trading periods, installed fans to improve airflow and adjusted delivery times and preparation schedules where possible.
“We’ve made it clear that anyone struggling in the heat should step away. Looking after the team has to come first”, Skinner stressed.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Skinner said the pub sector had once again demonstrated reliance.
“Whether it’s Brexit, Covid, the cost-of-living-crisis or extreme weather, operators have learned to react quickly. The businesses that remain flexible and put their teams first are the ones best placed to weather whatever comes next.”
Elsewhere, some operators took the decision to temporarily close kitchens as temperatures intensified, including the Brewers Arm in Dorchester closed.
In a Facebook post dated Tuesday 23 June, the pub explained the decision was taken to protect staff working in difficult conditions.
“[Our] kitchen will be closed on Wednesday,” it said.
“We are sorry but it’s become unbearable in the kitchen and tomorrow is looking even hotter - therefore we have a duty of care to ensure we keep our amazing team safe.
Extreme conditions
“Hopefully Thursday will be cooler and we can do what we do best again then! The bar will be open for drinks as normal but quiz night is cancelled - we appreciate your understanding.”
In a separate social media update, the pub confirmed the kitchen would remain closed the following day but would reopen as normal on Friday.
It also thanked customers for their support, adding kind words and messages were “most appreciated”.
Meanwhile, Cheshire Cat Pubs & Bars owner Tim Bird told The MA yo-yoing weather patterns had been challenging for operators.
He added ensuring staff remained hydrated during periods of extreme heat was essential.
“[Our] pubs are cool inside in the summer because they are old buildings,” he said.
“But it’s one complete extreme of cold rainy weathe one minute to a completely Mediterranean climate the next, no middle ground! But we have to do our best.”
