SEPTEMBER saw two traditional village inns in the Scottish Borders sold through Christie & Co, reaffirming what it described as the ‘current investor appetite’ for Scottish hospitality venues.
At the northern periphery of the Borders, the Gordon Arms Hotel in West Linton was snapped up by national pub company, Trust Inns, who have secured Craig McLaughlin as the new tenant to run the business.
Prominently positioned on Dolphinton Road on the A702, ten miles south of Edinburgh, the Gordon Arms is an ideal destination for both commuters and the area’s many visitors. The four-bedroom hotel is also highly popular with the local community for its newly refurbished restaurant and pub.
Trust Inns commented: “We are delighted to add the Gordon Arms to our estate and look forward to working with Craig McLaughlin and his team to continue the great work undertaken by the previous owners. We would also like to thank the Christie & Co team for their help in making this happen.”
The previous owners, Stephen Harper and Fiona Ingram decided to sell the business in order to retire, and said: “Thank you to all our staff, customers and friends for all their support over the last 25 years. It has been an incredible journey. Good luck to Craig and his team, we hope you all have as much fun as we did.”
Christie & Co also sold the Horse & Hound Country Inn, located near Hawick, Scottish Borders, which was purchased by Mark Wallace and his family.
Nestled in an idyllic countryside setting, this picturesque establishment is well-cherished by the community. Originally built in 1701, it features a traditional bar and restaurant area, as well as nine individually decorated letting rooms.
Previous owner operators Dawn and David Connachan thanked Christie’s Simon Watson for his ‘efficient and friendly’ service throughout the sale.
On the Gordon Arms Mr Watson commented: “This transaction re-affirms the current investor appetite for the Scottish hospitality sector. We are seeing ongoing demand from all types of buyers despite the economic backdrop, demonstrating investors’ confidence in the market.”
On the Horse & Hound, he added: “This fantastic business was acquired by Mark and his family who recently relocated to Scotland, I wish them all the best for the future.”
