Temporary Closure

The decision to temporarily close Crofters Rights for the summer was not made lightly and we understand the significant impact it has had on our regular customers, loyal staff and the vibrant community that surrounds us.

 

The reasons are multifaceted. Part of the decision was due to the significantly reduced customer numbers, due to the cost-of-living crisis. Being located in a largely student area, this has considerable impact over the summer months when it is just not a viable business, taking into account the rising costs associated with running a music venue offering reasonably priced ticketed and free events.

 

Our priority is to ensure the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of everyone who steps through our doors.  To do so requires a lot of investment in the building and therefore a long-term commitment from the freeholder. Unfortunately, in conjunction with the building’s deterioration, we also face a rent dispute with the Landlord, who feels it is now appropriate to raise the rent, despite knowing full well how challenging a live music venue is to viably run in 2024.

 

At the Crofters, we have supported live music in Bristol for 7 years and are greatly saddened that we are now in limbo. However, we cannot risk booking gigs with this dispute pending. Furthermore, August was forecast to be extremely quiet, as it historically has been, with minimal bookings throughout the month. It is far better to deal with any issues now where the impact on the musicians and promoters is limited, rather than later on in the year when the bookings are significantly higher.

 

There are other issues, such as complaints from the proliferation of new flats opposite our venue, but the picture is clear that we need time to reset the venue’s future.

 

Our sister venue Crofters Garden remains open