One in four UK late-night venues has closed since 2020, NTIA warns

The UK has lost nearly 800 late-night venues since 2020, raising concerns over the future of the country’s night-time economy, according to new data from the latest Night Time Economy Monitor.

The report, compiled by the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) and CGA by NIQ, show the sector has contracted by 26.4% since March 2020. 

A total of 2,424 late-night venues remain in operation across the UK, with three net closures a week recorded over the past quarter.

By contrast, the wider hospitality sector has shrunk by 14.2% over the same period.

The NTIA warned that some areas are becoming “night-time deserts” as closures outpace new openings.

Among UK regions, Wales and London have been hit hardest, with declines of 16.8% and 15.3% respectively since 2020. Greater London now has 343 such venues, compared with 433 in March 2020.

Meanwhile, Birmingham has seen the sharpest drop among major cities, with late-night venue numbers down 27.5%. 

Edinburgh has also recorded a 13.0% fall, with Liverpool seeing a 13.9% drop.

As a result, the NTIA has responded with its #StopTheDancefloorTax campaign, urging a permanent VAT cut for hospitality and night-time venues, the reinstatement of employer National Insurance thresholds, and the continuation of business rates relief until full reform is introduced.

Michael Kill, chief executive of the NTIA, said: “We’re witnessing the loss of important social infrastructure from our towns and cities. Nightclubs and late-night venues are more than just places to dance – they’re cultural institutions, economic engines and cornerstones of community life.

“The closure of one in four late-night venues changes the UK’s cultural landscape. Small venues nurture new talent… The collapse of independent venues puts the entire night-time economy at risk. The time to act is now. We must stop the silent slide into night-time deserts before the damage becomes irreversible.”

Karl Chessell, business unit director – Hospitality Operators and Food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ, added: “These closures have coincided with soaring operational costs – including increases to minimum wage and National Insurance in April – and a continued shortfall in post-pandemic support for independent operators. Although we have seen growth in venues such as themed bars and cocktails bars, our nightclubs and traditional late-night bars are cultural assets that we’re in danger of losing for good.” 

Sacha Lord, chair of the Night Time Industries Association, concluded: “These figures are deeply worrying. Night-time venues are not just business – they are cultural hubs, training grounds for artists, and vital contributors to local economies. Losing one in four since 2020 risks creating ‘night-time deserts’ and costing more jobs across the sector. We need urgent action: a VAT cut, business rates reform, and a reversal of NIC thresholds to protect venues, sustain employment, and ensure our cities remain vibrant after dark for generations to come.”