A well-loved 300-year-old hotel and pub that was a popular spot for tourists to stay in has closed its doors. 

The George and Dragon Hotel and Pub in West Wycombe High Street has closed its doors as the hotel's owner and head chef Arnaud Stevens has moved on. 

In an announcement of the sad news, the team said: "I would like to thank each and everyone of you for your support over the last few years.

ALSO READ: Shocking bullying, sex and spiritual abuse claims against vicar with 'flaming temper' being investigated

"It’s been a pleasure to be part of West Wycombe village and to have given the best we could…

"It’s time for us to move on and look forward to our next adventure! If you have made a booking recently we will be in touch with you shortly."

The historic pub, which also has a barn for weddings and a popular beer garden, reached its 300th birthday in 2020, but celebrations were ruined by the Covid-19 pandemic, which affected all businesses and restaurants. 

ALSO READ: Speed limit lowered on road where cyclists were killed by careless driver after major campaign

The George was hugely popular with locals and visitors from far and wide alike, garnering great reviews on Facebook and TripAdvisor - and the news of its closure has left people "heartbroken". 

Lexie Newlands wrote on Facebook: "Absolutely horrible news, all the best with whatever the future holds and thanks for all of the good times."

Catherine Dobson wrote: "Oh no. I’m so sorry to read this. We really enjoyed our stay with you last year. And visiting the caves.

"Fantastic old building with lots of history. We have been back a a couple of times just for lunch whilst we have been in the area! Lovley food. Good luck with your new venture."

ALSO READ: Viral TikTok video names High Wycombe as one of the worst places in south east (here's why we disagree)

Julia Noakes added: "This is terrible news. We loved our times spent in the beer garden and will miss the fish and chips."

Others have been left questioning what might happen to the pub next.

While it's not clear what the plans are for The George now - and no one answered the phone when the Bucks Free Press called - there is hope it will eventually reopen as the Facebook page has marked it as only "temporarily closed". 

The George has nine rooms and regularly held quiz nights, live music evenings and other special events, and chef Arnaud kept hundreds of people entertained during lockdown with live social media cook-alongs.