Studland's Middle Beach Cafe closes after National Trust decision

People from as far as Milton Keynes and Skegness made the trip to Middle Beach Café in Studland Bay to say their goodbyes on the day of its closure. 

In November it was revealed the café, which has been enjoyed by residents for nearly 70 years, was to close after the National Trust decided it was to demolish the building due to nearby coastal erosion. 

Middle Beach Cafe on its final day (Image: Daily Echo)

Owner Paul Brown, who has run the café for 34 years, said he was feeling a “great sadness” on his final day in the business but insists there is no hard feelings against the National Trust. 

Read more: Cafe set to close after nearly 70 years of trading after National Trust decision

He told the Echo: “I’ve had a fantastic 34 years and we all in the village hoped it wouldn’t happen, but it has. 

This café is a very important part of Studland: generations have worked here when they were 16/17. 

(L-R) Sarah, John and Kate (Image: Daily Echo)

“I am sad but also happy: the sun is out and we have been extraordinarily busy today.” 

Thousands of people have appeared at Middle Beach Café in its final week to wave goodbye to Paul, his team and the building, with many speaking of their upset at the National Trust. 

John Silbley who said: “It’s an unjust situation, the National Trust shutting what is really an institution.  

Middle Beach Cafe on its final day (Image: Daily Echo)

“I’ve been coming to this part of the world for 60-odd years and I’ve got to know Paul and his team and it seems sad that we won’t be able to come here and enjoy the lovely view or the café again. 

“The trust is here to preserve these things, not destroy them.” 

Mr Sibley’s wife Kate added: “I won’t be renewing my National Trust membership; I am so angry about it.” 

Middle Beach Cafe on its final day (Image: Daily Echo)

Sarah Rowley said: “I’ve lived here all my life, both my sons have worked here and since the National Trust took over they have totally ruined the beach. We’ve all tried so hard to keep this open.” 

Studland Parish Council councillor Nick Boulter said: “It’s very sad the café is closing. It is clearly well-loved by all the community and the visitors. 

“An engineers’ report we had said that for £140,000 we could have sea defenses put along here which would protect this for 25 years. It will cost the National Trust far more than that to demolish it.”  

Cllr John Worth, mayor of Chickerell, said he and his wife are thinking of not renewing their National Trust membership, such is their “sadness” at the closure.