The Original Bierkeller Lincoln has become the latest business in the city centre to close due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The club was forced to shut its doors at the beginning of the first lockdown in March 2020 and hasn’t been able to reopen since.
Bierkeller published a statement from its owner via their social media platforms on Monday 11 January, announcing the decision: “The Original Bierkeller has been a successful and well-loved art of the night-time economy in the city and we are devastated by the closure and its impact on our team and our customers, who we would like to thank for all their love and support.”
The post cites issues with negotiating a new lease as the reason for the sudden closure and assures fans that the club is looking for new premises.
Bierkeller was a firm favourite among students and local residents, and was best known for its selection of steins, live Oompah bands and infamous benches.
Its closure is yet another blow to Lincoln’s nightlife and many have expressed their upset following this announcement.
Warren Genders, a 20-year-old University of Lincoln film student, recalled: “In the summer of 2018, I was at Keller at least twice a week. It was mine and my friends’ favourite club in Lincoln.
“I’m truly heartbroken it’s gone, nights out in Lincoln will never be the same again. It really was the highlight of any night out.”
Samantha Hitchen, a 22-year-old Bishop Grosseteste University student said: “It was somewhere you could go for a night out or just for a laugh with your mates, any day of the week. The atmosphere was the best part. Everyone dancing on tables and singing their heart out. Everyone knew the words to every song.
“I am really gutted it’s gone. It was such a feel-good place. You always knew you’d have a good time whenever you went. It would’ve been the best place to unwind after the lockdowns; there’s truly no place like it in Lincoln!”
Lincoln’s nightlife remains in limbo, as COVID-19 cases have spiked in recent months, despite vaccines now being distributed.