
A campaign to save The Unicorn in Cublington has made its way to Parliament, shining a national spotlight on The Unicorn, a historic establishment currently closed but deeply cherished by its local community.
The campaign to rescue and reopen The Unicorn as a community-owned pub was officially acknowledged in the House of Commons on Thursday, 17 July, when local MP Laura Kyrke-Smith raised it during a debate on proposed new “right to buy” legislation. The pub is thought to be one of the first in the UK to be directly referenced in connection with the potential new law, aimed at helping communities take control of vital local assets.
The mention marks a significant milestone for the Save The Unicorn campaign, which has so far secured over £430,000 in pledges from residents in and around Cublington. The funds would be used to purchase the pub, which has long served as a central meeting place for villagers.
“This isn’t just about saving a pub,” said a campaign spokesperson. “It’s about preserving a vital part of our heritage and community, a place where neighbours gather, stories are shared, and the spirit of the village comes alive.”
Cublington is no stranger to grassroots activism. In the 1970s, villagers successfully opposed plans to build London’s third airport in the area — a fight that earned the village the nickname “the village that roared.” Residents say that same defiant community spirit is driving their current effort to save The Unicorn.
The campaign awaits the results of a formal “Red Book” valuation, a necessary step in the community right to buy process. Once received, the team will submit an official offer along with a detailed business plan aimed at transforming the pub into a thriving, community-focused venue offering food, events, and possibly even a shop for local produce.
With public support growing and a mention in Parliament now under their belt, campaigners are calling for more people to get involved — including former residents, supporters of rural heritage, and anyone who believes in the power of local action.
“This is a rare chance to protect a vital part of our heritage,” the campaign team added. “With enough support, we can restore The Unicorn as a thriving, community-run pub that serves not just drinks, but people.”
Supporters can pledge or donate via the campaign’s GoFundMe page: Save The Unicorn Pub
Watch the House of Commons clip here: YouTube