A stark new online tool has laid bare the precarious future facing many of London's beloved pubs, pinpointing the 100 establishments most threatened by proposed increases to business rates.
The Pubs Facing the Steepest Hikes
The website ismypubfucked.com, launched on Tuesday 13 January 2026, uses official Valuation Office Agency (VOA) data to calculate the potential impact. It reveals that the pub facing the most severe financial pressure in the capital is The Spread Eagle in Wandsworth. This venue is staring down a staggering proposed rates increase of £104,000, which represents a rise of 622 per cent.
In second place for London is The Beaten Docket in Cricklewood, North West London, branded "absolutely fucked" by the site. Its business rates could soar by £138,000, or 431 per cent. The third most affected London pub is The Dog and Bell in Deptford, which ranks 40th nationally. It faces a potential £74,000 hike, equating to a 426 per cent rise. Close behind is The Wickham Arms in Brockley at number 45 nationally, with a possible increase of £37,250 (+425 per cent).
A National Crisis for the Hospitality Sector
While the government is expected to alter how business rates are calculated, potentially offering some respite, the website's creator warns that rates are merely one part of a perfect storm. Ben Guerin, co-founder of creative agency Topham Guerin and an avid pub fan, built the tool to highlight the immense pressures on the industry.
"This tool exists to shine a light on what pubs are up against – and to help you find one near you that could use your support," Guerin stated. He pointed out that alongside business rates, pubs are grappling with rising wages, higher National Insurance, increased alcohol duty, soaring energy costs, and decreased customer spending.
The crisis extends far beyond London. The title of the most "fucked" pub in the country goes to The Victoria Inn in Gloucester, facing a potential 673 per cent rates hike (£25,000). The Berkeley Arms, also in Gloucester, could see a 933 per cent rise (£14,000), while The Den in Bristol may be hit with a 473 per cent increase (£22,700).
Record-Breaking Increases Across the UK
The analysis uncovers some eye-watering figures nationwide. The largest percentage increase identified is for The Bertie Arms in Stamford near Peterborough, where a £43,750 rise would mean a 1,944 per cent jump. In contrast, the biggest monetary increase would be felt by The Longwall in Oxford, which could see its rates rocket by £630,000 (a 94 per cent rise). The Premier Inn and Beefeater Grill in Dartford is also highlighted, facing a potential £546,000 hike.
It is crucial to note that the data used is from 2023, the latest published by the government, meaning some pubs on the list may have already closed their doors for good. The full list of London's 100 most at-risk pubs serves as a sobering map of a cherished cultural and social institution under unprecedented threat.
