The future of one of television’s most famous pubs is unclear after last orders were called at the weekend.

The Woolpack pub, in the original Emmerdale village of Esholt, closed after Nichola and Richard McGrath, who were running it, decided to quit to spend more time with their children.

The couple took over the 177-year-old hostelry on a ten-year-lease from Enterprise Inns four years ago, but with six more years left to run, they now want to move on.

However, Enterprise Inns has released a statement describing the closure as a temporary measure and say they are in discussions with the McGraths.

It will not be the first time that villagers have been left to work up a thirst when the pub’s doors have been shut suddenly.

In October 2005, drinkers and visitors were stunned when the former landlord walked out and its owners had no option but to shut it.

The Woolpack was bought from Bradford Council in 2004 by a group of villagers desperate to preserve its charm.

But their plan backfired and they decided to put it up for sale again, and it was snapped up by Enterprise Inns.

The pub chain advertised for new licencees and Mr and Mrs McGrath, who were running the Station pub in Guiseley, got the jobs.

Mrs McGrath said she would be sad to go but it was definitely the right decision. She said: “In summer it’s very busy here but in winter it’s deadly quiet and the two just don’t make up for each other.

“We’ve had enough of working 90 hours a week and want to spend more time with the children. Also it’s not easy being tied to a pub company with inflated rents and beer prices.

“We’ve loved every second here. We’re devastated for the villagers and we’ll miss the village terribly but hopefully Enterprise Inns won’t leave it long before they get someone else in. We’ll be back for a pint when they do.”

The couple have been trying to sell on their lease for months but have had no interest at all.

Enterprise Inns say there is currently no update on the pub’s future.

“Enterprise Inns is aware that Mr and Mrs McGrath have temporarily closed the Woolpack and we are in discussions with them,” a spokesman said.

“We will provide an update once we are in a position to do so.”

Although the Woolpack’s role in the ITV1 soap finished 11 years ago when filming was moved to the Harewood estate, it has not deterred visitors who still flock to Esholt from as far away as Canada, Japan and New Zealand.

Emmerdale is shown in 68 countries, and the Woolpack is one of the world’s most recognisable pubs.