Souter’s Inn, an historic venue in the South Ayrshire village of Kirkoswald, has been bought by operator Brian Daly of Southern Ayr Ltd, who also owns the Abbotsford Hotel, Bridges Bar, Wellingtons Bar and Brig Bar, all in Ayr.
Kirkoswald and its surrounding area is steeped in the history of Robert Burns, with Souter’s Inn particularly significant as it was home to the old schoolhouse that Burns attended back in 1772.
The inn itself is named after Souter Johnnie, a local character mentioned in Burns’ famous poem Tam O’Shanter, who lived in the village and is now buried across the road in the Old Parish Church graveyard.
A more modern consideration is that Souter’s Inn and Kirkoswald are just inland from the golfing hotspot of Turnberry.
The sale was handled by Jonathan Clough, of Smith & Clough, on behalf of his clients, The Costley & Costley Group.
Described as a ‘substantial and spectacular’ traditional property, Souter’s has a thatched roof, and can accommodate approximately 140 customers. It also houses an ice cream parlour/cafe/retail space, as well as a separate ice cream production unit and bakery, and has a large car park for approx. 60 cars.
“I would like to congratulate the new owners on the purchase of this historic property and outstanding business, and wish them the best of luck, and have no doubt that the business will continue to go from strength to strength,” said Jonathan Clough.
