Courtesy: Joe O'Shea Editor | News Source: corkbeo.ie

It's one of the most recognisable hotels in North Cork - but the landmark hotel in Fermoy has announced that it has closed its doors this weekend.

The owners of the hotel which sits by the bridge going into Fermoy on the old Dublin road made the announcement last night on their facebook page - surprising loyal customers and the town.

The brief statement from the owners said; "It is with heavy hearts and much reluctance that we say goodbye to The Grand Hotel. Over the past 12 years we have had tremendous support from our amazing and loyal staff, our suppliers and our fabulous customers.

Thank you for the good times and even during the tough times we have learned so much. We take great memories of Fermoy with us. It’s not how we hoped things would turn out and, despite our best efforts, we will cease trading on Sunday 10th November."

The Grand has been a landmark in the north Cork market town since the Victorian era and has been one of the landmark sights of the town for visitors arriving from the Dublin side as they cross over the Blackwater. Opened in 1873, it was for many years at the heart of this busy market town.

The closure of this small but charming heritage hotel will be a blow for the town which has seen a lot of new development, including new cafes and restaurants, in recent times. Locals will be hoping that new owners can be found to take over the hotel as a going concern.