Former drovers’ inn retains many original features
AN Aberdeenshire inn overlooking the River Dee that’s said to attract a good mix of local and tourist trade is on the market.
The Boat Inn, located in the village of Aboyne, dates from 1720 when it served as a drovers’ inn for farmers moving cattle across the River Dee.
The Boat Inn is a mature, well-run business.
Many of its original features have been retained.
The inn has a 62-cover traditional lounge bar/restaurant with a beamed ceiling, stone walls and a log-effect stove, which is said to create a “warm ambience”. During peak trading months the inn is said to handle more than 1000 covers a week.
A spiral staircase leads to the first floor area, which can seat a further 30 guests.
The adjacent Pine Loft function room can seat 50 and is said to be popular for parties as well as meetings of local groups and societies.
The inn also has six en suite letting rooms, each with its own kitchen ‘pod’.
Ken Sims, director at selling agent Christie & Co, said the inn has been well-run by owner Wilson Clark for the past five years, and draws a mixed clientele from Aberdeen, the Cairngorms and Royal Deeside.
“The Boat Inn is a mature business which is well-furnished and well-managed but still has room for growth,” he said.
“Producing profits of around £170,000, this is an ideal business for either an experienced operator or an investor looking for a strong return on investment.”
The Boat Inn is on the market with a price tag of £850,000 for the freehold.
Image: The Boat Inn in Aboyne has six letting rooms as well as bar, restaurant and function areas.
