The Star of Greenwich stops shining

The sudden call for repayment of a longstanding debt by our landlord Greenwich Hospital has made it financially unfeasible for us to continue operations. We have closed our doors for the last time.

With a £52,000 debt now due, we have had to face the reality of closing our doors.

We are truly sorry that we haven’t been able to give more notice, but this has happened very quickly, over a matter of hours. We would have loved to have a last drink with our incredible community and celebrate all we have achieved together.

Since reopening in April 2023 under community ownership, the Star has become more than a pub; it has been a thriving hub of support and community services. From playgroups to refugee support programs, from language classes to creative workshops, the Star has fulfilled a vision of inclusivity, built on the dedication and contributions of countless local organisations, volunteers, and visitors.

But none of these are as important as the friendships we’ve created along the way.

Thank you to our incredible team — Maria, Annie, Dave, Sandra, Viki, Nick, Iolanda, Lucie, Mel and too many others to name.

We hope you are as proud of what we’ve done together as we are.

Thank you Greenwich

Lisa, Kirsty & James

We have started a crowdfunding page on the off chance that we can raise enough to pay back some of the debt. It’s set to all or nothing so if we don’t reach £30k then nobody will be charged. Please do support if you’re able to

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/last-chance-to-save-the-star

A few of the amazing things we’ve done together

• English for Action (EFA): EFA’s language classes have become a cornerstone of the Star, helping dozens of non-native English speakers build confidence and language skills essential for everyday life. Initially serving 10 students per week, demand grew quickly, now regularly supporting 30 people weekly. These classes have provided a vital bridge for refugees and new arrivals, empowering them to communicate, engage with local services, and feel more at home in Greenwich​​.
• Plateful Café: Our partnership with Plateful Café has brought monthly pop-up dining events led by refugee chefs, offering unique culinary experiences while creating employment and community support for refugees and asylum seekers. These dinners attract 20–30 guests each time and have become a highlight for our regulars, who come together to celebrate diverse cultures and flavours. Plateful Café’s work has helped break down barriers and foster understanding within the community​​.
• AvoCuddle Playgroup: Serving dozens of families each week, AvoCuddle has made the Star a welcoming place for parents and young children, who gather here for playtime, social support, and shared experiences. The playgroup’s popularity speaks to the need for affordable, accessible spaces for families in East Greenwich, and it has become a significant social support structure, providing a “village” to many young families​​.
• Our partnership with Greenwich Skeptics has been one of the Star of Greenwich’s most engaging and thought-provoking collaborations. Through regular talks and events hosted at the Star, Greenwich Skeptics has brought a unique platform for critical thinking, open debate, and intellectual curiosity to East Greenwich. These events, attended by up to 1,000 people annually, cover a wide array of topics, from science and philosophy to social issues, sparking conversation among people of all backgrounds. This partnership has not only enriched the community’s cultural landscape but also aligned with the Star’s mission to create a space where residents can come together, learn, and connect over meaningful discussions.