Petition to keep cafe at The Old King’s Head, a 16th century Grade II-listed former inn in Kirton, from closing is set up

A petition has been set up in a bid to keep a popular community cafe at a recently-refurbished Grade II-listed building from closing.

The Old King’s Head in Kirton was falling into disrepair until backing from Heritage Lincolnshire transformed the venue into a bed and breakfast complete with cafe and function room, which opened to the public in 2001.

The venue also secured a licence to host weddings last summer.

However, ‘rising costs’ mean the cafe is set to shut later this month, leading villagers to hope the decision can be reversed.

More than 550 people have already signed the petition which has been set up by resident Amanda Price.

“We wish to express our deep concern regarding the proposed closure of the cafe and events offering at The Old King’s Head in Kirton, effectively disconnecting it from the local community,” she wrote.

“The Old King’s Head is a vital link to Kirton's past. Preserving this link is crucial for maintaining the historical fabric of our town and for educating future generations about our heritage.

“Beyond its historical importance, The Old King’s Head has been a hub for community activities, fostering social cohesion and most recently providing an events space. Closing the cafe and events spaces would deprive the community of a valuable gathering place.”

The Old King’s Head, which began life as a coaching inn called The Swan in 1599, has enjoyed a rich and varied history.

It changed its name to The King’s Head Inn in 1871 and just four years later John Benton, who lived and worked at the hostelry, was found drowned in a brewing copper due to what was described as ‘temporary insanity’.

During the Second World War Annie Smithbone took over as Innkeeper from her husband Fred until he returned from active duty in 1946.

In 1948 former British champion boxer Johnny Cuthbert took over as tenant, remaining until 1956.

Watney Mann Brewery sold the King’s Head to Frederick Peck in 1969, ending its use as a coaching inn and public house and turning it into a residential property for the first time in its long history.

In 2021, following a fundraising campaign which included public donations via a crowdfunder, work to restore the building was completed.

A statement posted on Facebook by the Old King’s Head said: “As you are all aware, Heritage Lincolnshire worked tirelessly to restore the building from the derelict ruins that it had become with the intention of supplying a community hub within the cafe.

“Unfortunately, in the current financial climate with rising costs in every area the charity can no longer continue to operate the events and cafe side of the business.

“With this in mind, The Old Kings Head Cafe will be closing. Our last operating day will be Sunday, November 24.”

The post concluded by thanking ‘customers for their continued support over the last three years’ and respecting the privacy of the staff as they ‘process this news which will have a massive impact on them as well as the community’.

You can view the petition here.

What do you think? Have you enjoyed avisit to The Old King’s Head? Would you like to see it remain open? Comment below.