A Wiltshire axe throwing and escape room venue has been forced to close after “complications” sunk a deal to bring in new owners.

Enigma Rooms Chippenham, a town centre escape room venue on New Road, announced on Thursday, July 13, that the franchise would be closing with immediate effect.

This comes less than a month after Enigma Rooms announced new owners would be taking over the Wiltshire branch, which was previously opened by local business Tanner Leisure Ltd in November, 2022.

In a statement on social media, an Enigma Rooms spokesperson revealed these new owners would no longer be taking on the franchise after the transfer fell through.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Enigma Rooms Chippenham

They said: “Enigma Rooms and Viking Axe Throwing is closing in Chippenham with immediate effect.

“We tried to organise a replacement franchise owner in Chippenham so there would be no interruption after we had no other option but to terminate the original franchise with Tanner Leisure Ltd.

“Unfortunately, that replacement has fallen through due to complications with the original franchise owner.

“We’re deeply sorry to be leaving Chippenham and apologise for the inconvenience caused.”

They added all customers with bookings will be contacted for a full refund.

Tanner Leisure Ltd owner John Tanner says he has located alternative new owners and is hopeful they will reopen the venue after a rebrand.