Humshaugh villagers upset as Walwick Hall closes to public

Walwick Hall in Northumberland will close as a hotel on Sunday

Villagers say they are "devastated" over a decision to close a spa hotel and restaurant in an 18th-Century hall.

The owners will close Grade II listed Walwick Hall, near Humshaugh, Northumberland, on Sunday.

The venue, which employs 18 staff, will be returned to the private accommodation sector, bosses said.

Vivienne Johnson, a local, said that she was concerned it was "sad news" for tourism around Hadrian's Wall and staff recruited from the area.

The hall, which is surrounded by gardens, is currently used as a ten-bedroom boutique hotel, restaurant and spa.

Walwick Estate Group, which also runs the Matfen Hall country hotel nearby, said it was their intention to restore it for family use when they bought it about nine years ago.

Vivienne Johnson has lived in the nearby village of Humshaugh all her life

"I'm really surprised," said Ms Johnson, who has lived in the village all her life.

"There are a few little pubs but this was one of the main attractions and they had done it up very nicely.

"I think it's sad. It's a lovely place."

The hall had become popular with people visiting Hadrian's Wall, which was built between Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway, Cumbria, she said.

However, some questioned whether its remote location, about six miles (9.6km) from Hexham, was ideal for a luxury hotel.

One woman, who asked not to be named, said: "I am absolutely gutted.

"I don't think it was well-used by the community, I haven't seen many people walk up from the village.

"It was always very, very quiet but it will be hugely missed".

Roy Gough said he is not surprised that the venue is closing

Roy Gough, who stayed at the hotel twice before recently moving to Humshaugh, suggested there was not enough demand for a "boutique hotel" in the area.

He added that he was "not surprised it will close".

James O'Donnell, head of commercial development at Walwick Estate Group, said the hotel had informed affected customers.

All staff have been offered jobs at other businesses within the group, he said.

"Walwick was purchased with the intention of being a family home and the journey has lead us to focus on other things.

"Matfen Hall is doing very well... and the scale there is very different. So the focus is moving to that."

Those visiting Walwick Hall often pass through Humshaugh village