Pub set in historic Burlington location is closing down

Once considered a mainstay in downtown Burlington, a Brant St. dining and meeting spot will soon close its doors.

The Queen’s Head Pub has announced it will shut down for the final time on Sept. 16.

A message on the restaurant’s website today confirmed the news.

“I am saddened, that after 20-plus years of being part of the Burlington downtown restaurant scene, due to circumstances beyond my control, we regretfully announce that we are forced to permanently close the Queen’s Head Pub,” was the message sent out by the owner Ed Catley. “This decision was not one we had foreseen and therefore not one we had ever contemplated.”

The establishment is known for its traditional pub fare, live entertainment and as a gathering spot for fans to watch soccer matches from the U.K. and Europe. The walls and shelves of the pub are designed in mahogany and customers are served in its lounge, banquet hall and on its outside patio.

In its guide to local eating establishments, the Burlington Downtown Business Association refers to the Queen’s Head as a “one-stop attraction for quality cuisine and the perfect gathering spot for all occasions.”

The pub is located at 400 Brant near Elgin St. and was built in 1860 for use as a hotel called the Zimmerman House and later known as the Queen’s Hotel and then the Sherwood Hotel. The building is considered a landmark treasure in Burlington.

It is not yet know what will happen at the site once the pub closes.

In his online message, Catley thanked his staff both past and present for their dedicated work and he praised loyal customers for their support during the past 20 years.

“It has been our pleasure to have the honour of serving you,” he said.