Meldrum House Country Hotel and Golf Course in Aberdeenshire has been bought by Edinburgh-based Apex Hotels for an undisclosed sum.
The hotel and its associated estate has been privately owned by three Aberdeenshire businessmen – Bob Edwards, and brothers David and Terry Buchan – since 1993.
Under their care, Meldrum House has undergone a number of enhancements: the associated Knights Golf Course was opened in 1998, and recently celebrated its 25th anniversary by hosting the Scottish Men’s Amateur Championship; a multi-million refurbishment in 2009 elevated the hotel’s status; and in 2016 further major investment created more bedrooms and a ballroom for up to 200 guests.
Over those year, the hotel has won a number of awards, including a Visit Scotland Scottish Thistle for ‘Best Hotel’ as well as being named as one of The Times Top 100 UK hotels.
It also claimed a prestigious Catey Award for ‘Best Marketing Campaign’ for its luxury dining domes, which were launched in July 2020.
Bob Edwards commented: “After 31 years of owning Meldrum House, it is the perfect time for a new chapter, where the hotel and estate will become part of Apex Hotels’ expanding portfolio.
“As a family owned and run business, we are delighted that Apex have the same principles and passion for what we have created and together with David and Terry Buchan, I wish them the very best for the next 30 years of Meldrum.”
Meldrum House will be Apex Hotel’s 10th hotel within their UK portfolio, following the purchase of the Pine Trees Hotel in Pitlochry last July. The acquisition follows another strong financial year for the group, supported by a £60 million refinancing package with Barclays.
Chief Executive Officer of Apex, Angela Vickers said: “After a strong trading period across our portfolio, the acquisition of Meldrum House represents an opportunity to continue to diversify Apex Hotels, giving our guests even more choice of a city or countryside option.
“This is an exciting time for the company and after getting to know the team at Meldrum House it was clear they share the same aims and ambitions we have at Apex. Meldrum House will be one of our flagship hotels and we are delighted to be the next custodians of this historic property.”
Jordan Charles, who will remain as Meldrum House’s managing director, supported by his existing team, added: “This is a great opportunity for Meldrum House as we have had a couple of record years of performance and solid economic growth.
“The new owners have great plans, vision and ambitions and I look forward to helping them drive the business forward with our team.”
