Sudbury restaurant Boathouse Bar and Grill suddenly shuts with immediate effect due to behind-the-scenes issue

A popular restaurant overlooking the Sudbury riverside has suddenly ceased trading this week, due to a “behind-the-scenes matter that cannot be resolved”.

The Boathouse Bar and Grill – based next to the River Stour off Cross Street – announced on Monday morning that it was closing its doors to customers with immediate effect.

The hospitality outlet had been operating with its current branding for less than 18 months, having re-opened in late March 2022 after several years under the name of The Riverside Bar and Restaurant.

In a statement, owner Darren Pratt – an experienced publican who has lived in Sudbury for over 30 years – explained that the issue meant the business could not continue, although he is hopeful of elsewhere in the town in future.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we have had to close The Boathouse with immediate effect,” he said.

“This is not down to the cost of living crisis, gas/electric bills, lack of staff, or lack of a lovely customer base.

“This is purely the result of a behind-the-scenes matter that cannot be resolved.

“We have had an amazing time meeting old friends and making new ones.

“Myself and Emma (Jones, the restaurant supervisor) would like to thank all our amazing staff that have been on this journey with us but, unfortunately, you can’t win every battle.

“So, from all the Boathouse team, thank you all, and we love you all.

“Hopefully, one day we may be able to open another venue in town under different circumstances.”

In addition to its main restaurant, lounge bar and outdoor dining area, The Boathouse also provided canoe rentals from the adjoining river jetty.

Before its reboot under Mr Pratt, who formerly ran Easterns nightclub, the venue had experienced a turbulent recent history under previous ownership, with multiple closures and re-openings over the prior 10 years.