Pub landlords have been left with 'no choice' but to leave.

Paul and Karen Brown have announced they are stepping down as publicans of The Castle Inn in Congleton.

The decision comes little more than a year after they took over, following 'increasingly difficult' challenges facing the industry.

They said: "We are really sad to be leaving such a lovely little pub.

"We've been in the industry almost 14 years spending just over 12 years at our last pub.

"We have found it increasingly difficult with the economic challenges in the hospitality industry and had no choice but to leave The Castle Inn."

The Castle Inn reopened in 2024, having been closed for nearly two years (Credit: Punch Pubs)

Paul and Karen previously spent over a decade as landlords at The Roaring Meg for

On February 3, 2024, the husband-and-wife team swung open the doors to The Castle Inn.

This came some 642 days after its sudden closure in May 2022.

In partnership with independent pub company Punch Pubs & Co, around £160,000 was invested in reviving the pub, which dates back to 1820.

However, little more than a year after reopening, Karen and Paul announced they would soon be leaving.

"We would like to let you know that we are leaving The Castle Inn after what has been a memorable and enjoyable time here," read a recent post on the pub's Facebook page.

 "It has been an absolute pleasure to be part of this wonderful community, and we want to sincerely thank you all for your support, custom, and friendship over the past year.

"Thank you for making us feel so welcome. We will truly miss this beautiful pub and, most importantly, all of our very loyal customers."

It is not yet clear what will happen to the pub when Karen and Paul leave (Credit: The Castle Inn)

Paul and Karen's last day of service will be Sunday, April 6.

They are now taking time to review their future plans, while the future of The Castle Inn remains unclear.

They said: "We are waiting for confirmation from the brewery about what will happen when we leave the pub.

"As soon as we know more we will advise our customers and staff."

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