"Save the Dip" Campaign:
Preserving Hampton's Beloved Pub
A Thriving Campaign with Real Momentum
The Save the Dip campaign continues to build strong momentum, transforming from a local concern into a powerful demonstration of what communities can achieve when they unite behind a shared vision. Led by Robert Lee, this inspiring initiative has grown to over 450 committed members, all working together to secure the future of the beloved Railway Bell pub, known locally as "The Dip."
This historic 19th-century establishment has been Hampton's authentic social heartbeat for over six generations.
The campaign's rallying cry – "Once it's gone, it's gone!" – has galvanised residents who understand that some community treasures simply cannot be replaced. The pub's contribution to the village has been recognised by the London Borough of Richmond classifying the property as an Asset of Community Value.
Building the Plan
The Campaign Group is currently building the Plan for how the vision will be achieved. How the property purchase, refurbishment and refitting can be funded and what needs to happen to make the ongoing operations profitable and sustainable.
It is a pain-staking exercise to build the right plan. The Campaign Group is expecting to have the Plan ready for publication and external scrutiny in September 2025 with a Town Hall meeting with the campaign group and supporters being held a few weeks afterwards for the Plan to be presented and openly discussed.
WATCH THIS SPACE: SUBSCRIBE TO THE CAMPAIGN NEWSLETTER AND BE KEPT INFORMED OF PROGRESS.
The Vision for the future
The goal is simple – to reopen The Railway Bell and put it back where it belongs, at the very heart of the community for generations to come.
The Dip is for sale at £1 million and the campaign is keen to hear from more interested investors. The plan is to raise capital through a Community Benefit Society. Investors could buy shares, probably in units of £100.
We cannot let the opportunity to ‘Save The Dip’ slip through our fingers. You can help turn our vision into a reality.
We have a lot of supporters, all focused on seeing a much-loved pub thriving once again. And the pub has been designated as an Asset of Community Value by Richmond Council, which really helps our cause.
Strong local engagement at the Hampton Hub
The Hampton Hub (in Ashley Road, TW12) has proven to be the perfect catalyst for this remarkable community mobilisation, hosting two highly successful public meetings that have demonstrated the depth of local passion for preserving The Dip and bringing together hundreds of residents in a welcoming, accessible venue.
Many thanks go to Chris Grace for providing the space to us and facilitating these events.