Landlady of popular Blackpool pub Boars Head leaves after seven years amid police-led licence review
“It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that I will be leaving The Boars Head.”
The long-serving landlady of one of Blackpool's best-known pubs has announced she is leaving amid an ongoing, police-requested licence review.
Karen Bracegirdle announced the news on social media on Wednesday evening, bringing an end to her seven years of service running the pub.
After taking over the Boars Head in 2019 Karen made the decision to run the pub by herself in 2024, along with the help of her son Christian.
Karen said: “It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that I will be leaving The Boars Head.
“Christian and I would like to thank every single person who has supported us over the past seven years. Your loyalty, friendship, and encouragement have meant more than words can express, and we will always treasure the wonderful memories we’ve shared with both the pub and its customers.
“Sadly, this decision has not been ours to make. In light of recent events, along with ongoing issues over the past couple of years involving antisocial behaviour and noise complaints from the surrounding area—matters that have been completely beyond our control—the licensing authorities have recommended a change in management with immediate effect.”
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Blackpool Council began consulting on a review of the Boars Head's premises licence on July 25. A spokesperson for the Council said: “An ongoing premises licence review has been submitted by Lancashire Police in relation to allegations of disorder at the venue.
“Any decision relating to management of the venue would be a matter for the licence holder responsible for the premises.”
Lancashire Police have been approached by The Gazette for comment, along with the pub’s managing group Dobiere Pub Group.
The Boars Head remains one of Blackpool’s best known pubs and is included on Blackpool Council’s local list of heritage assets.
Karen added: “Although this chapter is coming to an end, we would love the opportunity to celebrate with you all one last time.
“Finally, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of this wonderful community. We wish the new manager and The Boars Head every success for the future, and we’re sure we’ll be back to enjoy a drink with the many friends we’ve made over the years.”