The popular hotel and spa will be closing at the end of this month despite the owner, Beate Robinson, originally intending to refurbish and re-launch aspects of the business.

Closure of Dudsbury Golf Club will follow at the end of March to the disappointment of its members.

Proprietor Beate Robinson issued a statement on 4 January about the sudden decision to close the hotel. He said: “After careful evaluation, considering factors such as our age, declining health, adverse weather and economic conditions we have made the difficult decision to cease the remaining operations of the business on 1 February 2024 while keeping the golf course open until 31 March 2024.

“This means that the entire site will close and be sold on 1 April 2024. As a sole trader, it is my aim to close the Dudsbury business by the end of April, concluding all my business matters. The reason for the staggered timescale is to aid the proper closure of a business of this size, allowing my team to manage the closure and fulfil immediate commitments.”

He expressed thanks to his staff and said: “We understand the significant impact this decision will have on our staff and are doing our utmost to support them during their transition to alternative employment.

“I would like to thank everyone for all the support and kindness they have shown me and for appreciating all we tried to do at Dudsbury.

“My heart never wants to let go of the club, as it’s been such a big part of my life but I now accept I must.”

Dudsbury Hotel and Spa will close at the end of January and Dudsbury Golf Club will close at the end of March.