Pub tackles energy costs by dining in the dark

A former National Pub & Bar Awards winner is launching a uniquely themed event in order to tackle the rise in energy prices.

Cambridge-based neighbourhood pub The Tollemache Arms, owned by Wells & Co, is launching a special ‘Dining in the Dark’ event this winter as a nod to the battle the hospitality industry is currently facing in dealing with energy bill price hikes. 

Each Thursday throughout November, the pub will shut off its lights and guests will be able to dine on a four-course meal by candlelight accompanied by drinks and music.

With the average energy bill for a hospitality business reportedly increasing by over 258% this year, The Tollemache Arms has launched Dining in the Dark as a way of drawing in locals for a fun evening out while also reducing its electricity usage.

“It’s great to see The Tolle taking some initiative and not only hosting a really good night for guests, but really bringing the hospitality industry energy crisis to the forefront of everyone’s minds," says Chris Reed, retail development manager at Wells & Co. "The government must take action on further supporting our industry and our pubs otherwise it will be chaos."

As businesses do not benefit from a cap on what suppliers can charge for gas and electricity, many pubs will not be able to cope with the rising bills without further support from the government. 

Entries for the 2023 National Pub & Bar Awards open on 4 January. 

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