Stapleford Park, a historic Grade I listed country house hotel near Melton Mowbray, ceased operations on October 16, 2024, after its owners, DreamR Group, called in liquidators due to ongoing financial challenges.
The owners of the prestigious four-star hotel and country retreat cited “adverse trading conditions” as the reason for the immediate closure. DreamR Group, which acquired the property two years ago, has now enlisted specialist insolvency practitioners, Leonard Curtis, to handle the company’s entry into creditors’ voluntary liquidation.
In a statement sent to members last week, the hotel announced its closure and the termination of all club memberships, effective immediately. The email read: “It is with great regret that we must inform you that Stapleford Park Hotel will be ceasing to trade as of 16 October 2024, and your club membership terminated with immediate effect.”
The statement continued: “Unfortunately, as a result of adverse trading conditions and the financial position of the operating company, Stapleford Park Limited, the hotel cannot continue to operate, and management have little option but to cease trading the hotel with immediate effect, including club membership.”
DIFFICULTIES AFTER GOLF COURSE CLOSURE
Stapleford Park is a luxury estate set in 500 acres of parkland designed by famed landscape architect Capability Brown. The venue has long been regarded as a premier countryside retreat, offering 48 guest bedrooms, two self-contained cottages, an acclaimed restaurant, and a luxury spa facility.
Despite its historical prestige and stunning grounds, the hotel has struggled financially under DreamR Group’s ownership. Earlier this year, DreamR signed a management agreement with Bristol-based M&T Hotel Management, a company specialising in hotel management and advisory services, in a bid to turn the hotel’s fortunes around. Unfortunately, the partnership was unable to prevent the hotel’s closure.
Stapleford Park’s 6,944-yard, par-73 golf course, designed by Donald Steel and opened in 2000 while boasting Sam Torrance as it’s Touring Professional, had already closed in 2020, further signalling the venue’s financial difficulties in recent years.
The closure of Stapleford Park marks the end of an era for a venue that has been a beloved countryside escape for guests and members alike. As the liquidation process unfolds, the future of the property remains uncertain.