In a sudden and significant development for Lancashire's hospitality sector, Guy's Thatched Hamlet, a well-known hotel located off the A6 near Bilsborrow, has ceased operations. The closure has resulted in all staff being made redundant, marking the end of a 46-year trading history for the establishment.
A Notice on the Door Confirms the End
A notice has been taped to the entrance of the 65-room hotel, which is situated by the Lancaster Canal on St Michael's Road, informing customers of the permanent shutdown. The message, as reported by the Lancashire Post, conveyed the difficult nature of the decision.
"After 46 years of trading, we can confirm Guy's Thatched Hamlet has now closed," the notice stated. It continued, "This has been a difficult decision and one made with considerable thought. We would like to sincerely thank our customers, staff and suppliers for their loyalty and support over the years."
The notice further expressed that the hamlet had meant a great deal to many people and that the focus was now on bringing this chapter to a close as it moves through a period of transition.
Local Residents Voice Their Disappointment
Responding to the news, local residents have shared their disappointment and sadness over the closure, with many recalling personal memories associated with the venue.
- One individual wrote, "Where my hubby proposed to me in 2012."
- Another replied, "I also got engaged here in 2015. Such a shame."
- A third commented, "Been going to Guys regularly for years and even proposed to my partner in the restaurant and got a round of applause from all the diners. Sad that's it's gone and hopefully someone will take it on and keep it as it is."
Background: The Hotel's Sale Listing
The business was put up for sale last year, with the listing highlighting its strategic advantages. It described Guy's Thatched Hamlet & Hotel as being in a highly prominent and accessible area, with easy access to the Lake District, Fylde Coast, and the Trough of Bowland.
The hotel featured 65 en suite letting bedrooms and attracted a high volume of leisure-based business, along with a mix of commercial trade. Its location on the A6, abutting the Lancaster Canal and within 4 miles of the M6 and M55 motorways intersection, was noted as ideal for capitalising on business from surrounding districts.
Acquired over 44 years ago by the clients, the property had undergone extensive refurbishment, adaptation, and extensions. The listing emphasised that Guy's Thatched Hamlet is unique and renowned throughout the North West of England, with a solid year-round trading base and a busy food and beverage offering during summer and festive periods.
It stated that the business saw a £4.2 million net turnover, although no guide price was listed in the sale information.
