May Brewsletter: “Growth, Struggles, Resilience Through the 1930s and Wartime”

May Brewsletter 2025

Expansion Amid Economic Hardship

The 1930s were challenging times for Batemans Brewery. Despite the economic difficulties, we managed to expand our estate by adding 10 more pubs. However, this growth came at a cost — large bank debts forced Harry Bateman to make the painful decision to lay off many of the Brewery’s staff.

Seeing his former employees struggling on the streets of Wainfleet, Harry quickly reversed his decision and reinstated them. His ability to do so was greatly helped by securing a key contract to supply beer to the Butlins holiday camp empire, thanks to his friendship with Billy Butler.

Strengthening Our Presence in Skegness

Determined to strengthen Batemans’ presence in Skegness, Harry initially set his sights on buying the Ship Hotel, one of the most fashionable pubs in the area, owned by Nottingham-based Home Brewery. However, he ultimately decided to build a modern hotel from scratch on the seafront.

Originally planned to be called the Jolly Fisherman, Harry later named it The County Hotel — a building that soon became an iconic landmark in Skegness. The County Hotel officially opened in 1934, with Harry’s children — Helen, George, and John — proudly laying the foundation stone.

A Thriving Estate Before the War

By the mid-1930s, Batemans Brewery had expanded to 67 pubs and hotels, also supplying a wide network of free trade pubs across the region. Harry maintained strong relationships with other local breweries and joined the boards of Mowbray’s of Grantham and Soames of Spalding.

Facing the Challenges of World War II

As World War II approached, new challenges arose. The Brewery faced a depleted workforce, with all able-bodied men between 18 and 41 years old called up for military service. Further compounding the difficulty were government restrictions on beer production and increases in beer duty.

Lincolnshire played a vital role in the national defense, becoming home to many bomber squadrons. Batemans’ pubs, such as the Royal Oak at Mareham and the Red Lion at East Kirkby, became popular gathering spots for airmen stationed nearby.

Between 1939 and 1945, the Brewery — like the rest of the country — endured some of its toughest years. Through it all, Harry Bateman remained determined to do his part to support both the war effort and his community.