Owners shocked and upset to close 'thriving' cafe after 'best year yet'
Mother-daughter duo Jo and Charlotte Thompson revealed The Apple Tree Kitchen in Clifton-upon-Teme will have a "bittersweet" December as it prepares to close due to inheritance tax issues.
The pair, who have ran the cafe at Pitlands Farm Holidays for over five years, received an unexpected notice stating their tenancy would end on December 31.
In a joint statement, the two said: "We were shocked and upset to receive notice from our landlords on November 25.
"The business has grown from an outdoor café operating out of our Vintage Horsebox during the summer following lockdown to a vibrant café and event space.
"Despite the difficult circumstances, the team is determined to end the year on a positive note.
Outside the The Apple Tree Kitchen in Clifton-upon-Teme. (Image: The Apple Tree Kitchen)
"The closure comes at a time when the business has been thriving.
"2025 has been our best year yet, which is thanks to the dedicated, hard-working team and the incredible support of our customers.
"As for the future, plans are already forming.
"We’re currently exploring every option.
"This isn’t the end for us… just the beginning of a new chapter."
Mrs and Miss Thompson have both shared how customers' supportive messages and visits have been overwhelming and a great source of comfort during a very difficult time.
Owners of Pitlands Farm Holidays, Ian and Alice Mann, explained how the decision to end the Thompsons' tenancy was "out of their hands".
In a statement shared on Facebook, the pair wrote: "Recent changes in Government legislation regarding passing a family business from one generation to the next have made things very difficult for us.
"Pitlands Farm has been in our family for nearly 100 years.
"To protect our future at Pitlands, and that of our children, we have had to make this exceptionally hard decision."
Pitlands Farm has decided to combine The Apple Tree Kitchen into its holiday let business, meaning Mrs and Miss Thompson will not be involved when Mr and Mrs Mann reopen the cafe in 2026.
However, Mrs and Miss Thompson are now searching for a new location to re-open their cafe.
The café’s much-loved Vintage Horsebox will still be available for private hire for events—from coffee and cake to bar service and dessert tables through Mrs and Miss Thompson.
The team is also seeking a kitchen to rent to continue its growing wholesale baking operation.
