Don’t Panic: Pub Isn’t Closing Permanently

After whispers, worries and the kind of Manx social media panic normally reserved for missing cats and ferry delays, Okell’s has stepped in to reassure islanders that the Mitre in Kirk Michael is not closing permanently.

Reports had begun circulating that the historic pub, widely believed to be the oldest surviving inn on the Isle of Man, was set to shut its doors for good, prompting understandable concern from locals and pub lovers alike.

But fear not.

Okell’s Inns has confirmed to Gef the Mongoose that the Mitre will only be closing temporarily, while the brewery prepares for a refurb once the current managers move on.

Even better, Okell’s says it has ‘exciting’ plans lined up for the much-loved pub, and the rest of its estate.

So no, the lights aren’t going out forever, they’re just being switched off briefly while someone gets the paintbrushes out.

The news comes hot on the heels of another Okell’s refresh, with the Whitestone in Ballasalla currently closed for an extensive refit and expected to reopen late next month.

And if any pub deserves a bit of TLC, it’s the Mitre.

The building is thought to date back centuries, sitting on the 120-acre estate of Ballachrink, with the first recorded mention appearing in 1797.

During his tour of the island, Feltham described it as ‘a most respectable inn with a beautiful hostess who cannot fail to attract and please every visitant’, high praise indeed, and not a bad TripAdvisor review for the 18th century.

Back then, the Mitre even sported a thatched roof, and was apparently quite rowdy with the village folk.

So while the doors may close for a short while, the Mitre isn’t going anywhere.

It’s just getting ready for its next chapter, and islanders can rest easy knowing one of Manx history’s most treasured watering holes will be back before you know it.