OSWALD House Hotel in Kirkcaldy has been boosted by bank funding worth £160,000 as it moves into the final phase of a renovations project.
Douglas and Sarah Philip will use the finance to install a new heating system, repair the roof and roughcast the exterior walls of the wedding venue, which dates from the 18th century. The latest renovations will put the finishing touches to an extensive refurbishment project begun when the owners acquired the property last year. That work has seen the refurbishment of the hotel’s 15 rooms, ballroom and dining room for the first time in 40 years.
Under the Philips’ management, the B-listed building is marketed exclusively as a wedding venue capable of accommodating up to 36 guests. The husband and wife hope to raise the venue’s profile and increasing bookings once the renovations are complete.
Bank of Scotland is provided the funding for the latest works, and is working with the owners on plans to acquire additional venues in the area. These include a barn they hope to convert into a wedding venue, and a hotel.
Douglas Philip said: “We wanted to open a business that would tap into the growing demand for traditional Scottish wedding venues that allow guests to stay in one location for a few nights.
“When my wife and I bought the hotel, we wanted to fully renovate the property to maintain the original décor that we know would appeal to guests. Our plan is to keep attracting wedding parties as well as golf tourists visiting many of the local courses. We also hope to add to our portfolio over the coming years and open other similar venues across Fife.”
Louise Molloy, at Bank of Scotland, said: “We’ve been working with the owners of Oswald House to ensure the business can grow and ultimately succeed in what is a competitive industry.”
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