Lost & Found Bar on Bedford Hill in Balham will close for good on Sunday night, August 23, after 13 years of operation. The bar's team announced the closure on Instagram, describing it as the hardest post they have ever had to write, and have launched a final weekend offer of 2-for-1 cocktails to give regulars a chance to say goodbye.
Emotional Announcement and Final Weekend Offer
In a statement posted on Instagram on Saturday morning, the Lost & Found team wrote: "Balham, this is the hardest post we have ever had to write. After 13 incredible, unforgettable years of shaking drinks in the heart of our community, we will be closing our doors for the final time this Sunday, the 23rd."
The team said they are feeling "incredibly emotional" but mostly filled with "immense gratitude." The statement thanked regulars, neighbours, and the local community, saying: "You didn't just support a small independent business; you gave this place its soul."
To encourage a lively farewell, the bar is running 2-for-1 cocktails all day Saturday and Sunday until closing time. The bar is open from 5pm to 1am on Saturday and 5pm to 11.30pm on Sunday.
Regulars Share Memories of First Dates and Celebrations
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of grief from loyal customers. One person commented: "I had my first date with my husband in your bar. I had my 40th in your bar." Another wrote: "This is so sad. I was a regular when I lived in Balham, had many dates with my girlfriend (now wife) and celebrated my birthday in the karaoke room. Don’t live there anymore but always come back to visit when I can, you will be sorely missed."
A third regular added: "Aww this is so sad. Had the most epic karaoke birthday party downstairs here a few years back. Gutted!" Summing up the general feeling, another said: "This is so devastating."
Team Reflects on 13 Years of Community
In their statement, the Lost & Found team reflected on the memories created over the years: "Looking back, we’ve shared an entire lifetime of moments with you. We’ve hosted your weddings, celebrated countless milestone birthdays, and cringed (with love!) through some truly horrible karaoke sessions. Through every high and low, you made us who we are. We are walking away with a lifetime of beautiful memories."
The team encouraged the community to join them for the final days: "We don't want to say goodbye in silence—we want to go out with a bang! Starting right now, we are running 2-for-1 cocktails all night long until the shutters go down on Sunday."
The post concluded: "Come down, raise one last glass with us, share a favourite memory, and help us give this legendary little bar the send-off it truly deserves. We love you, Balham. Thank you for the last 13 years."
