In a sudden and unexpected move, a beloved Lancashire hotel and restaurant has ceased operations after nearly five decades of service, leaving staff without jobs and loyal patrons heartbroken.
A Sudden End to a 46-Year Legacy
Guys Thatched Hamlet, located off the A6 near Bilsborrow in Lancashire, has confirmed its immediate closure. The 65-room hotel, situated picturesquely by the Lancaster Canal on St Michael’s Road, had been a fixture in the community since 1980. A notice taped to the entrance formally announced the shutdown, marking the end of an era for the popular venue.
Staff Redundancies and Business Details
It has been reported that all employees have been made redundant as a result of the closure. The business, which spanned almost 14 acres, included not just the hotel but also a tavern, restaurant, sports pavilion, function rooms, a cricket ground, bowling green, and three car parks. The Wilkinson family had operated the establishment since its inception, and it was put up for sale last year with a net turnover of approximately £4.2 million, though no guide price was listed.
Customer Reactions and Social Media Outpouring
Distraught customers have taken to social media to express their sadness and share personal memories associated with the hotel. One user reminisced, "Where my hubby proposed to me in 2012," while another added, "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 it's gone and hopefully someone will take it on and keep it as it is."
Official Statement and Future Prospects
The closure note, as reported by the Lancashire Post, stated, "After 46 years of trading, we can confirm Guy’s Thatched Hamlet has now closed. 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 hamlet has meant a great deal to many people, and as it moves through a period of transition, our focus is on bringing this chapter to a close."
Strategic Location and Business Appeal
The hotel was strategically positioned to attract both leisure and commercial trade, with easy access to the Lake District, Fylde Coast, and the Trough of Bowland. Its location near the intersection of the M6 and M55 motorways made it a convenient stop for travellers. The property had undergone extensive refurbishment and extensions over the years, solidifying its reputation as a unique and renowned destination in the North West of England. The food and beverage offerings were particularly busy during summer and festive periods, contributing to a solid year-round trading base.
The sudden closure of Guys Thatched Hamlet highlights the challenges facing the hospitality industry, leaving a void in the local community and raising questions about the future of the site.
