In a statement on the their Facebook page they said:
It is with exceptionally heavy hearts that we are announcing our closure of The Bear, 17 Market Square
After a long time trying to get the best possible deal for our lease renewal, it has become unfeasible for us to continue our journey here. With an excruciating 20% rent increase & nearly 18% increase on draught products through the brewery (meaning a further 50p on Fosters necessary!) it is just to difficult in the current economic situation.
We’ll be locking the doors for the final time on Saturday 11th February at midnight🕛 But, we have Friday and Saturday to see The Bear out with a party, just as we always have!
With DJ Gareth on Friday 10th from 9pm, can and have a fun-filled evening with us as we say goodbye to the pub we love dearly!
We’ve enjoyed every second of being here, meeting the customers, staff & everyone else. So thank you for being a part of The Bear
Don’t forget, we’ll still be operating from The Stout House so come and see us there where we’re still going strong!
The only thing left to say is, here’s to the years we’ve had at The Bear & here’s to the many more we’ll have at our other sites!
It’s not a goodbye forever, just a “We’ll see you at The Stout House!”
Simon, Cathy, Kieran & Team x