After standing proudly for 284 years, one of Aberdeen's most historic pubs has poured its final pint. The Old King's Highway, which first opened its doors in 1741, has closed permanently following a dramatic decline in customer numbers attributed to extensive nearby roadworks.
A Legacy Cut Short by Modern Disruption
The historic establishment, which underwent refurbishment just last year, has weathered nearly three centuries of social and economic change. However, the current Union Street regeneration works proved to be an insurmountable challenge for the business.
John Wemyss, who took over the pub just nine months ago, made the difficult decision not to renew the multi-year lease that was due to expire. In a statement, the owners revealed: "This morning we were due to finalise the details of a new multi-year lease for OKH as our current one is about to expire. But instead we have decided to put our notice in and our time at the venue will now come to an end."
Roadworks Create 'Perfect Storm' for Business
Wemyss cited a combination of factors that created what he described as a "perfect storm" for the business. Nearby roadworks, closure signs, temporary gates, and parked construction lorries created significant barriers for potential customers.
Speaking to local media, Wemyss explained: "The main decision to not go ahead with the multi-year lease was due to the Union Street works. It just killed all the footfall, totally. It just didn't make commercial sense to renew the lease."
Political and Community Reaction
The closure has sparked concern among local politicians and community members. MSP Liam Kerr expressed his disappointment, stating: "We have lost another place in history that has helped shape Aberdeen for centuries. This devastating announcement is yet another blow to the Scottish city's centre and follows the closure of several other hospitality premises across Aberdeen so far this year."
Kerr emphasised the cultural importance of such establishments, adding: "Pubs like the Old King's Highway are the lifeblood of our city, and I hope a new leaseholder can be found."
Council Response and Mitigation Efforts
Aberdeen City Council responded to concerns about the impact of roadworks on local businesses. A council spokesperson commented: "Aberdeen City Council, through their contractors, have been working with businesses to keep them updated on the programming of works and to facilitate access while the works are ongoing."
The council outlined specific measures implemented to support businesses, including:
- New walkways and crossing points through construction sites
- Additional signage on hoarding to direct customers
- Relaunch of the 'open for business' campaign
- Continued engagement with all Union Street businesses
The spokesperson added: "The open for business campaign has also been relaunched to support the businesses impacted particularly through the Christmas period, and we will continue to work with all the businesses on Union Street while the works are ongoing."
Broader Context for Aberdeen's Hospitality Sector
The closure of The Old King's Highway represents part of a worrying trend for Aberdeen's city centre hospitality sector. Several other establishments have closed their doors this year, raising questions about the balance between urban regeneration and business survival.
The 284-year-old pub's closure marks the end of an era for Aberdeen, removing a living piece of the city's social history. As regeneration works continue on Union Street, business owners and local authorities face the ongoing challenge of maintaining economic vitality while pursuing long-term urban improvement projects.
