Ayrshire restaurant chain Buzzworks has announced its first move into the hotel sector, taking over a property in East Lothian.
The Blair family bought the Tower Inn in Kilwinning in 1978 but the company is today better known for its chain of restaurants, which began with Elliots in Prestwick in 2002.
Buzzworks Holdings now operates restaurants across Ayrshire as well as expanding into East Lothian, including Herringbone North Berwick and Lido Musselburgh, alongside Thirty Knots and Scotts Port Edgar in South Queensferry, Edinburgh.
Continuing that expansion, the company has now made its first foray into accommodation with the purchase of the Nether Abbey Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1957 and has been run by the Stewart family for more than 60 years.
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With the handover set for mid-January, the hotel will close its doors to allow Buzzworks to begin preparations for a major seven figure redevelopment.
A key element of the redevelopment will be the creation of a pub and restaurant at the heart of the venue.
With planning expected this winter and construction due to begin in spring, the venue is scheduled to reopen in late 2026 and provide 45 new jobs.
As part of the acquisition, all current hotel team members from The Nether Abbey will be retained by Buzzworks, with roles being offered across its existing venues during the major renovation works.
Kenny Blair, managing director at Buzzworks, said: “North Berwick is one of Scotland’s special coastal towns, and an outstanding location for our first move into accommodation. This hotel has been an important part of the community for decades, and we are committed to honouring that legacy while bringing a fresh, modern Buzzworks experience to both locals and visitors alike.
“A central part of our vision is to build buzzing pubs and restaurants that people love, and the atmosphere of staying above one of Scotland’s most loved hospitality venues is something genuinely unique.
“This acquisition is just the start of our journey into accommodation, and it supports our long-term aim to become Scotland’s most loved hospitality business, and we are excited to take this next step.”
Stirling and Jela Stewart, from The Nether Abbey Hotel, said: “After more than 60 wonderful years in our family, we are incredibly proud of the legacy of The Nether Abbey Hotel and the role it has played in the North Berwick community.
“Buzzworks shares our family values of providing quality, service and community spirit, and we’re confident the hotel is in excellent hands as it begins its next chapter.”
