A historic hotel in Lancaster city centre has shut its doors.
A 'Notice of Re-Entry' on the door of the Royal Kings Arms Hotel - which marks its 400th birthday this year - said the building had been "secured".
Beyond Radio contacted the Kings Arms by telephone on Monday and we were told the hotel had closed due to "repossession".
Lights were on inside the Market Street hotel on Monday evening, but the doors were locked and there were notices displayed.
The 'Notice of Re-Entry' says: "Take notice that we, Plantview Limited, being the owner of the Premises...have today re-entered the Premises pursuant to a power to do so contained in a lease made between Landmark PG General Partner Limited and Landmark PG Nominee Limited (1) and RKA 2014 Limited (2) dated 19 December 2014 (the Lease).
"As a result of the said re-entry, the said Lease has become forfeit and the Premises has accordingly been secured.
"Only persons authorised by us are entitled to enter the Premises and any attempt by any person without our authority to enter the Premises is likely to amount to a criminal offence which may result in prosecution."
The notice was signed by Bolton-based Plantview Limited, as owners of the premises, and dated September 1 2025.
A further notice on the door is below.
Beyond Radio contacted Plantview Limited and received a response from Landmark Collections Limited, who represent the head leaseholder of the building. They said they were unable to provide further detail at this stage.
We have also contacted Castrum Hotel Management Ltd, hotel operators, for comment.
A post on the Facebook page of Lancaster venue The Borough, on Monday, said:
"We were saddened to hear the news that The Royal Kings Arms has closed its doors.
"As fellow members of the hospitality and events community, our hearts go out to their team, couples, families, and everyone affected.
"To any couples who had planned their special day there – please know that we’d love to help. If you’re suddenly searching for a new venue, our team is ready to work with you to make sure your celebration still happens the way you’ve dreamed.
"And to the talented staff from Kings Royal Arms if you’re looking for your next opportunity, please reach out to us directly. We know how much passion and hard work goes into creating unforgettable experiences, and we’d be honored to connect.
"Our community is stronger when we support each other. Please don’t hesitate to message us – we’re here to help however we can."
Below, the hotel and its adjoining bar The Crypt pictured on Monday, September 1 2025.
Guests at the hotel over the years have included the future King Edward VII and legendary writer Charles Dickens.
The hotel was rebuilt in the Victorian era following a fire, then fully refurbished again in a multi-million pound renovation completed two years ago.
Guys Thatched Hamlet closes suddenly after 46 years
Teenager spared jail for causing death of newborn child in Morecambe
Morecambe Town Council agrees budget and 2.46 per cent rise in Council tax share
Builders of new Lancaster housing development offer £2k cash pot to community groups
Lancaster centre welcomes mayor for opening of new community kitchen
Lancaster shop to close as high street gaming chain faces administration
Jim Bentley returns for second spell as Morecambe FC manager
Ashvir Singh Johal’s reign as Morecambe manager comes to an end
Lancaster writer's ghost story of Morecambe to be voiced by acting legend on Radio 4
Change of name announced for popular Morecambe bar
Opening announced for new Morecambe bistro inside former post office
Health watchdog report shows improvements to services at Royal Lancaster Infirmary
LISTEN: How Leo's Gym is making a difference in memory of young Morecambe boxer
LISTEN: Lancaster set to celebrate Chinese New Year
Lancaster’s Vue Cinema under new ownership
Lancaster city centre car park to close ahead of "catalyst for the development of the Canal Quarter"
Crews tackle commercial building fire in Lancaster
Heritage plaque to mark first Lancaster University site and Gillow factory
Heysham men appear in court in connection with death of cyclist in Morecambe
Fundraiser launched for Heysham family who lost everything in house fire
