Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has acquired The Nether Abbey Hotel in North Berwick, marking the first step in the company’s stated plan to diversify into accommodation.
With the handover set for mid-January, the hotel will close its doors to allow Buzzworks to undertake what is described as a ‘seven figure redevelopment’ to transform the site into one of the company’s House Collection venues, centred around a modern pub and restaurant – but with 12 bespoke bedrooms alongside.
The Nether Abbey Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1957, has been run by the Stewart family for more than 60 years. Sitting within a late nineteenth-century building, it is known locally as a welcoming, high-quality destination for visitors, golfers and the community alike.
Its acquisition builds on Buzzworks’ existing presence in East Lothian, where the company already operates some of the region’s most popular venues, including Herringbone North Berwick and Lido Musselburgh, alongside Thirty Knots and Scotts Port Edgar in South Queensferry.
As part of the acquisition, all current Nether Abbey team members will be retained by Buzzworks, with roles being offered across its existing venues during the major renovation works.
The company also confirmed plans to increase the number of hospitality jobs in the local area once the new venue opens, creating between 25 to 45 additional roles across front of house, kitchen, housekeeping and management.
Managing director at Buzzworks, Kenny Blair, said: “North Berwick is one of Scotland’s special coastal towns, and an outstanding location for our first move into accommodation.
“This hotel has been an important part of the community for decades, and we are committed to honouring that legacy while bringing a fresh, modern Buzzworks experience to both locals and visitors alike.
“A central part of our vision is to build buzzing pubs and restaurants that people love, and the atmosphere of staying above one of Scotland’s most loved hospitality venues is something genuinely unique.”
Blair continued: “This acquisition is just the start of our journey into accommodation, and it supports our long-term aim to become Scotland’s most loved hospitality business, and we are excited to take this next step.”
Stirling and Jela Stewart, from The Nether Abbey Hotel, commented: “After more than 60 wonderful years in our family, we are incredibly proud of the legacy of The Nether Abbey Hotel and the role it has played in the North Berwick community.
“Buzzworks shares our family values of providing quality, service and community spirit, and we’re confident the hotel is in excellent hands as it begins its next chapter.”
Buzzworks currently operates 22 award-winning bars and restaurants across Scotland and was recently crowned Best Managed Pub Company in the UK (under 51 sites) at The Publican Awards. This latest addition to its portfolio is scheduled to reopen in late 2026.
