The Gisburn Forest Café, in the heart of Gisburn Forest, are closing under its current management after eight years. The café, which has been a popular spot for cyclists, hikers, and local visitors, will shut on November 24, 2024, with a final day on November 30 for the sale of various items.
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It is clear from their announcement, that there are widespread challenges facing the hospitality sector all across the country and that this closure reflects a broader trend of difficulties encountered by rural businesses, particularly those reliant on tourism and outdoor activities.
Their announcement highlights several factors have contributed to the café's closure:
"Unfortunately, due to the general fact that hospitality businesses across the country are struggling, which is so sad to see. Rising costs, decreased events, and so many other factors. I am unable to continue into 2025. I hope Forestry England finds the resources to make Gisburn a great place for visitors."
The Gisburn Forest Bike Trails community has also commented, noting that the closure is partly due to underutilisation of the café by visitors. They call out changes in Forestry England's policies, including increased fees for event organisers, skills instructors, and on-site cafés, which have impacted the business environment across the forest.
As of now, there are no immediate plans for a new operator to take over the café's operations. Visitors are advised to follow Forestry England Gisburn Forest for any future updates regarding facilities in the area.
This development clearly raises questions about the sustainability of small businesses in rural recreational areas and the delicate balance between conservation, tourism, and local enterprise which all need active nurturing and support. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry in adapting to post-pandemic economic realities. Will the recent budget help or hinder given changes to national insurance and the national living wage?
the key thing is if you are out visiting the trails, and you can afford to then please choose to support local businesses that rely on our trade for survival. As Gisburn Forest Bike Trails aptly states "use them or lose them".
A big thanks to and good luck to Angie and the team.
You can check out Gisburn Forest MTB Trails here.
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