More than 120 local residents packed the Hampton Hub last week to launch a community fightback aimed at saving one of the area's most cherished social spaces, The Railway Bell pub, affectionately known as "The Dip."

The meeting marked the formation of Save the Dip, a grassroots group founded by local resident Robert Lee.

The campaign's mission is to prevent the permanent loss of this historic local pub and explore options to bring it into community hands.

The Railway Bell had to suspend trading in April 2024 following the death of longtime licensee, Seamus O'Kane.

Ownership then reverted to Stonegate Group, the UK's largest pub company, which advertised for a new tenant under what residents call "unrealistic terms."

The freehold is now being offered for sale — triggering urgent local action.

Dating back to the 19th century, The Railway Bell has been a cornerstone of Hampton life for generations.

Conveniently located just minutes from Hampton Station and boasting a secluded garden that is a favourite suntrap in warmer months, the pub has long served as a meeting point for residents and community groups alike.

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The Railway Bell pub has a secluded garden (Credit: Robert Lee)

Robert Lee said: "This is about more than just a pub.

"It's about protecting a space that brings people together, that adds life to our neighbourhood, and that deserves to be at the heart of Hampton's future, not its past."

The Save the Dip group has grown rapidly and now boasts over 350 members, with numbers continuing to rise.

Plans are already in motion to launch a robust campaign to secure the pub's future, including exploring options to purchase the freehold—potentially through a community ownership model.

As a first step, the group has formally applied to have the pub designated as an Asset of Community Value.

Locals are invited to join the campaign by emailing [email protected].