Owners of a popular cafe and shop say rising costs have had a “detrimental impact” after announcing its sudden closure.

Archive Homestore and Kitchen in Ramsgate will shut its doors for the final time tomorrow after staff revealed the news on social media today.

The venue, by the town's harbour, has become a popular spot for locals and tourists over the past eight-and-a-half years.

But owner Naomi Grady says the aftermath of Covid and rising costs have left her with “no option” but to close.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to announce the closure of Archive Homestore and Kitchen,” she said in a statement.

“Our final day of trading will be Sunday, February 18.

“Although this decision may seem very sudden, it is something I have been struggling with for a while.

“Covid, and the aftermath, coupled with the escalating costs of goods and energy, has had a significant and detrimental impact on the business, with no option now but to close our doors.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all of my team past and present, who have worked so passionately to make Archive what it is.

“Thank you to every one of you who supported the business over the last 8.5 years, our amazing suppliers and the Ramsgate community.

“Thank you to friends and family who have supported and held me through this difficult time; I know many of you have special memories associated with Archive - it was a pleasure to have been part of so many of your lives.”

In December, KentOnline reviewer Chris Britcher visited the cafe and was “smitten” with his food giving it a five-star rating.

With friendly staff and good value for money, he described the venue as “really quite special”.

Following the announcement, loyal customers have taken to social media to express their sadness with one saying: “So sad to hear this.

“Archive is my go to cafe, delicious food and fantastic staff – a real loss for Ramsgate.”

Another thanked the team for “giving so much to Ramsgate”, while others described it as being “one of the best places in our lovely town”.