Famous Derbyshire castle hotel reveals it has closed for good

The holiday company which owns Willersley Castle Hotel, in Cromford, say they have ‘taken the difficult decision’ not to reopen the historic venue following the coronavirus lockdown.

The venue overlooks the River Derwent and Matlock Bath on the edge of the Peak District National Park. It also forms part of the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

A statement on its Facebook page says: "We are saddened to share that Methodist Guild Holidays Ltd have taken the difficult decision that Willersley Castle Hotel will not reopen.

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"Our colleagues at Willersley Castle have been made aware of the closure, in what has been a challenging time.

"All customers with bookings are being contacted by the hotel manager to discuss a booking transfer or refund.

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"Staff and management at Willersley Castle Hotel, along with Methodist Guild Holidays Ltd, would like to thank customers for their continued support over the years and their understanding during this difficult time."

According to its website, the venue was built for inventor and industrialist Sir Richard Arkwright at the end of the 18th Century.

Commenting on Facebook, Derbyshire residents said they were saddened by the news.

Davinia Dave Reynolds posted: “Absolutely gutted! We loved Willersley, it was our escape. So sad, I hope in the future you may find a way of reopening. Thank you all for your service.”

Jennie Strong said: “Oh a little bit of my heart has just broken.”

Former staff also expressed sadness at the closure and said they hoped it would return.

Kay Wheeldon said: “I worked at Willersley for five years as receptionist and Social Organiser.

“Met some lovely people and had some good times working there.

“The hotel will be missed by many people. I hope that it is bought and is up and running again in the future as it's in such a beautiful location and it would be such a shame for it to fall into disepair.”

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