Pubs have been changing fairly rapidly over the last twenty years because so many now drink at home rather than the old 'popping out for a quick one' culture, drink driving laws and little or no public transport have hardly helped the situation.
The ones that struggle a little less are the small family ones and the large food / music pubs, the struggling ones are in the middle, to small to expand business and too large to be cosy. As with the vast majority of businesses the overheads are sooooooooooo high and I hate saying this, there are still too many pubs in some areas.
Back on topic
. I believe there is a place for children in pubs but the parents have to realise their little dears must behave and not run riot.