Pergola Paddington Closing, An End of an Era for London\’s Rooftop Scene

The ​​sudden closure​​ of Pergola Paddington in January 2024 marked the end of a beloved London rooftop venue that had been a hub for social gatherings and iconic parties since its opening in July 2017 🎉. Operated by the Incipio Group, this 850-capacity space hosted famous events like “Pergola Paraiso” and “Deck the Halls,” making it a staple in London’s nightlife and dining scene. Despite its popularity, the venue served its last guests on January 20, 2024, followed by a final closing party featuring special guest DJs 🎶.

​​Why Did Pergola Paddington Close?​​

The closure wasn’t due to a single factor but a combination of strategic and industry-wide challenges:

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  ​​Lease Expiration​​: The end of the venue’s lease presented a natural opportunity for Incipio Group to reassess its portfolio.

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  ​​Consolidation Strategy​​: Incipio Group chose to focus resources on its other eight venues, including Libertine in the City and Palm House in Victoria, as well as newer projects like the recently launched 411 in Angel🏙️.

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  ​​Industry Pressures​​: The hospitality sector has faced significant headwinds, including rising operational costs and shifting consumer spending habits. As one restaurateur noted, “The industry has changed. People are working very hard for their money at the moment, so you need to make sure you tick every box”💸.

​​A Symbol of Bigger Challenges?​​

Pergola Paddington’s shutdown reflects broader issues in the hospitality industry. Other establishments, like Kindle in Cardiff and Green’s in Didsbury, also closed due to financial difficulties around the same time 📉. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, forcing many venues to pivot abruptly—such as shifting to takeaway models—which drained resources and tested resilience 🦠.

Despite these hurdles, Incipio Group remains optimistic about the future. They’ve hinted that “the Pergola name will live on at Pergola on the Wharf and an exciting space to be announced soon,”suggesting a strategic shift rather than a full retreat 🚀.

​​What’s Next for London’s Hospitality Scene?​​

The closure of Pergola Paddington underscores a trend of consolidation and adaptation. Venues are increasingly prioritizing spaces that offer multifaceted experiences—combining dining, entertainment, and flexibility—to meet evolving consumer demands 🍽️.

Incipio Group’s decision to focus on high-performing locations may well set a precedent for other operators looking to thrive in a post-pandemic world 🌍.