Gloucester leisure attraction Ultimate Warriors has closed its doors with immediate effect this May 2026, having entered administration.
The independent family business, formerly a franchise of national brand Ninja Warrior UK, revealed the news to customers in an open and honest Facebook post this week, citing the rising costs impacting leisure and hospitality businesses across the UK.
The centre has welcomed more than 400,000 guests of all ages to tackle its fun challenges over the past six years, opening as Ninja Warrior UK Gloucester in 2019 before splitting from the franchise in 2025 and rebranding, with a view to improving its activities.
The Facebook post read: 'Over the years, we have navigated a pandemic, an energy crisis, rising living costs, and increasing operational expenses. We also made the decision to move away from franchise involvement so we could invest those costs directly into renewing our equipment and improving our offering.
'However, the reality of running a small independent business has become increasingly difficult. Taxes, energy bills, wages, insurance, business rates, and supplier prices have all risen significantly, while businesses like ours are often unable to pass these increases on to customers who are already experiencing their own financial pressures'.
The owners say they explored every option for keeping the centre open, but despite strong interest, were 'devastated' to have a sale fall through at the last minute.
They say their priority now is to support everyone effected, and they will work closely with appointed administrators to provide updates where possible.
The post added: 'To everyone who visited us, celebrated with us, worked with us, or supported us along the way - thank you. Your support, loyalty, and memories will stay with us forever'.
Nearly 100 supporters commented messages of support, saying they were 'gutted' for the team and expressed how much they and their children enjoyed their experiences there.
