Guys Thatched Hamlet on A6 near Preston closes suddenly after 46 years

The 65-room canal-side hotel and restaurant in St Michael’s Road, known for its rustic theme and thatched roofs, has shut with immediate effect.

Notices were found taped to the entrance today, confirming its closure. The business had been owned by the same family for 46 years. All staff have been made redundant.

Statement from Guys

The note said: “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.”

The almost 14 acre complex is home to a tavern, restaurant, sports pavilion, function rooms, cricket ground, bowling green and three car parks that can accommodate up to 200 vehicles.

The business has been run by the Wilkinson family since 1980 and includes the 200-cover traditional pub Owd Nell’s Tavern, 175-cover Guy’s Eating Establishment which serves Italian cuisine, 80-cover Tommy Hatton’s Function Room off of the cricket grounds and The Boddington Pavilion function room next to the bowling green.

The venue is well known for its community events including hosting the weekend-long Oyster Festival with live music and family entertainment every September, as well as regularly hosting community sporting fixtures and special events during the school holidays, from fairs to ice rinks.

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Listed for sale

The business was put up for sale last year with the listing stating the net turnover was around £4.2m. Substantial offers were invited, though no guide price was listed.

It said: “Guys Thatched Hamlet & Hotel is located in a highly prominent and accessible area with easy access to the Lake District, Fylde Coast and the Trough of Bowland.

“The hotel element has 65 en suite letting bedrooms and attracts a high volume of leisure-based business together with a mix of commercial trade.

“The property is conveniently and strategically well located on the A6 to the south of Bilsborrow village and abutting the Lancaster Canal.

“Located within 4 miles (10 minutes’ drive) of the intersection of the M6 and M55 motorways it is ideally placed to take advantage of the high flow of business coming from the surrounding districts.

“The business was acquired by our clients over 44 years ago and has since been the subject of extensive refurbishment, adaptation and extensions have been constructed.

“Guy’s Thatched Hamlet is unique and renowned throughout the whole of the North West of England. There is a solid year-round trading base, with the food and beverage offering being extremely busy throughout the Summer and Festive periods.”

Guys Thatched Hamlet were approached for comment.