Coventry’s the Phoenix, formerly known as the Colin Campbell, will trade until the weekend of 6 September before closing its doors for the final time.
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The venue, which is owned by Stonegate, announced the closure on social media, describing it as “very emotional news” for the team.
A statement attributed to manager Dom Woolley and The Phoenix team said: “We really want to end on a high, welcome you all in to enjoy the last few weeks of the Phoenix and give the pub the send off it really deserves.
“I know for many of you, it runs much deeper and further than simply the Phoenix. The Colin Campbell has a deep rooted history in Coventry and throughout its evolution we’ve all shared the same passion and love for the pub at one time or another. Coventry is losing a piece of history, and that’s what really hurts in all of this.”
A Stonegate spokesperson told the Morning Advertiser (MA): “Following a review of our estate, we can confirm that we have agreed the sale of the Phoenix in Coventry.
“Decisions to divest venues are never taken lightly, particularly given the Phoenix’s long standing place within the local community. However, we keep our portfolio under constant review to ensure strategic alignment across our wider pub estate.
“We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated site team and to all our loyal guests who have supported the pub over the years.
“Our priority now is supporting our team members through this transition, including exploring redeployment opportunities within the group wherever possible.”
City history
The pub, close to Coventry University, has long been associated with the city’s student community and has hosted events including quiz nights, live music nights, bottomless brunches and sports screenings.
The BBC reported the venue originally opened in 1720 as the Parrot and Griffin, before being renamed the Sir Colin Campbell in 1868. It later became known as The Campbell before closing and reopening as the Phoenix.
Coventry closures
The closure follows the shutdown of two other Stonegate sites in Coventry last month, the Town Wall Tavern and the Aardvark.
Stonegate, which owns both sites, said at the time the pubs would close for a short period while it prepared them to reopen under new management.
The latest closure comes amid continued pressure on the pub sector, with British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) figures showing around two pubs a day closed in the first quarter of 2026.
