A popular axe-throwing venue in Southampton has closed its doors less than a year and a half after it first opened. 

Black Axe Throwing Co Southampton announced on Thursday that it has closed its site at The Marlands on Civic Centre Road. 

The venue first opened in April 2023 as the chain's fifth UK site. 

But just one year and five months on, staff have announced on social media that Black Axe is now closed, branding it a "huge shock". 

READ MORE: Black Axe Throwing Co is coming to Southampton

In a post on Instagram, staff members Natalie, Vasco and Marc said: "So I guess you wonder where we have been?

"As of now we are sad to announce Black Axe Southampton is no longer and we won't get to see your lovely faces anymore.

"It's been a huge shock and we are gutted.

"We just wanted to say from the bottom of our hearts thank you to everyone who came and threw axes with us all, we've completely loved our jobs here and wish our co-workers in the other venues all the best and are so thankful to our lovely manager who has been incredible to us!

"We've always had the best time with you all here. Here's to the next chapter. Thanks so much."

The Marlands shopping centre, SouthamptonThe Marlands shopping centre, Southampton (Image: NQ)

The reason for the closure is unknown at this time but the chain's other venues in Margate and Lancaster appear to still be trading. 

It follows the sudden closure of its Edinburgh site in November 2023. 

The announcement was met with sadness on social media with one customer, Alice Elizabeth Oakley writing: "So gutted, but wishing you all the best!

"Have many great memories of throwing axes with you guys - we will miss you!"

Another Instagram user added: "We had the best time with you and we're fitted to hear this!

"Thank you so much to the team for making us smile and enjoy throwing axes."

Black Axe Throwing Co has been approached for more information on the closure.