One of Scotland’s oldest and most ‘culturally significant’ hotels, The Golden Lion in Stirling, has changed hands.
Following the sale by companies in the Flagship Hotel Group, the hotel is now owned by AGR Hospitality (Stirling) Limited.
The buyer, described as an experienced operator in the hospitality sector, is expected to build on the hotel’s reputation ‘while introducing fresh vision to take the business forward’.
The transaction was led by Paul Macdonald, a partner in Harper Macleod’s corporate team, who has extensive business succession experience advising clients in the hospitality and food & drink sectors.
Paul Waterson, director of the selling company, said: “Paul Macdonald and his team at Harper Macleod were great throughout the process. Their professionalism and advice ensured a smooth and successful sale.
“The Golden Lion continues to stand as a historic and welcoming landmark in Stirling’s city centre and I wish the new owner all the best for the future.”
Originally established in 1786, The Golden Lion Hotel has played host to generations of tourists and become an integral part of Stirling’s history.
One of its most significant guests was Robert Burns, who stayed at the hotel in 1787. During his visit, Burns composed a short poem known as ‘The Stirling Lines’ lamenting the decline of the Stuart monarchy and the ruined state of Stirling Castle.
Within walking distance of that castle, The Golden Lion has operated as a hotel since 1820 and was acquired by Waterson in 2003.
As well as 66 letting bedrooms, the three-star hotel includes Cronies Bar, five conference rooms, a ballroom and a cocktail foyer.
Macdonald said: “It was a real privilege to be involved in the sale of such an iconic property. The Golden Lion has a unique place in Scottish cultural and literary history, and we were pleased to support a smooth transition to new ownership.
“We wish Paul Waterson all the best for the future, following his 20 plus years as custodian of The Golden Lion, and look forward to seeing the new owners build on that legacy and take the hotel from strength to strength.”
